3 days ago
Royal New Zealand Air Force establishes first dedicated space unit
Photo:
RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
The Royal New Zealand Air Force has established its first dedicated space unit, within a squadron that hasn't been active since World War II.
The No. 62 Squadron - which originally supported Allied operations with radar technology during World War II - was reactivated today at a formal ceremony at the RNZAF Base Auckland.
Defence Minister Judith Collins said it reflected the government's commitment to protecting the country's interests and security in the "rapidly evolving space domain."
"Space is vital for modern life. We rely on space-based infrastructure for a range of critical services, from weather observation to financial transactions.
"This is an important signal that we're taking space security seriously."
The unit's initial focus will be on monitoring, analysing, and understanding space activity to "safeguard national and international interests," she said.
"Recent global developments have highlighted the need for resilient, advanced defence capabilities."
Collins said this was part of the work the Defence Force is doing to maintain a "combat-capable, flexible" force.
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