New Zealand signs contracts to procure unmanned aircraft systems
The X2D UAS (pictured above) features an autonomous navigation suite designed to perform real-time 360° obstacle avoidance, object detection, and motion prediction. (Skydio)
The New Zealand Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed three contracts with EPE New Zealand Limited (EPE), US-based Quantum-Systems Inc, and Australian company Criterion Solutions Pty respectively to procure unmanned aircraft systems (UASs) for the New Zealand Army as part of the Network Enabled Army (NEA) programme, the MoD said in a press release in mid-December.
According to the MoD, EPE will supply “a number of quadcopter micro UAS, which are backpack portable and can be operational in less than 75 seconds”.
Under the contract, EPE will also supply remote ground sensor systems to the New Zealand Army, which combine seismic, acoustic, and infrared sensors to detect and identify moving objects, the MoD said.
Both systems will be used by the 2/1 Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment, the MoD added.
According to a statement by EPE on 19 December, the company – in partnership with American UAS maker Skydio – will supply the New Zealand Army with the X2D UAS to increase the service's reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities, which will improve situational awareness and support deployed command decision making.
According to Janes data, the X2D has a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 1.3 kg and a footprint of 383×302×107 mm when unfolded and loaded with the battery; however, it can be folded to 152×106×50 mm for storage and transportation.
