New Zealand company secures contract to provide drones for UK destined for Ukraine
The prime ministers of the two countries have announced the establishment of a new joint defense partnership to replace the one signed in 2015.
A company from New Zealand, founded in 2021 and operating from a warehouse in Tauranga, has secured a NZ$66.8 million (US$39.88 million) contract to supply drones to the UK for use in Ukraine.
Syos Aerospace specializes in manufacturing unmanned vehicles for air, land, and sea operations, particularly heavy-lift unmanned helicopters like the SA200 model.
The company, which already has a production site in the UK and plans to expand into Australia and the United States, has developed a proprietary control system for its drones that enables operation in areas with unreliable satellite-based navigation.
British Prime Minister Sir Kier Starmer announced the deal as both the UK and New Zealand increase their defense spending to 2.5 and 2 percent of GDP, respectively, and NZ Prime Minister Chris Luxon visits the UK.
Syos projects revenue to triple in the coming year due to the expansion of defense spending.
Starmer emphasized continuing collaboration with New Zealand to support Ukraine against Russian aggression and expressed gratitude for the enduring partnership between the two countries in promoting peace and stability.
New Zealand’s commitment to Operation Interflex in Ukraine was reiterated, with plans to extend support and increase cooperation on defense and security matters.
The UK government confirmed plans to establish a new joint defense partnership to replace the existing agreement from 2015, recognizing the importance of the UK-New Zealand partnership in maintaining stability and security across multiple regions.
Additionally, the Royal New Zealand Navy frigate HMNZS Te Kaha has joined the UK Carrier Strike Group on its mission to the Indian Ocean.
