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NZDF Eyes Human-Piloted Strike Drones | Auckland News
New Zealand’s defense force is shifting gears, eyeing human-operated strike drones to replace costly traditional missiles — a move that could boost local tech firms. While previously focused on surveillance, the ministry now seeks affordable, locally-made weapons systems, aligning with a $100–300 million upgrade plan. Meanwhile, market research kicks off for unarmed ocean-monitoring drones, with funds earmarked for Pacific and Antarctic operations. Though autonomous weapons remain off-limits, human-guided systems are on the table — especially as allies like Australia and the U.S. ramp up…
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