New Unit Reflects Rising Strategic Role of Space in New Zealand
The New Zealand Air Force will establish a dedicated space squadron to support space-based defence and global security efforts, a senior official confirmed on Wednesday. The move highlights the increasing importance of space in national and international defence strategies.
Air Vice-Marshal Darryn Webb, Chief of the Air Force, said that although the Air Force already has a team focused on space, formalising it into a squadron underscores its growing role.
“Space is now part of our present and will only become more critical in the future,” Webb told Reuters. “By creating a space squadron, we’re laying a foundation for future growth.”
Squadron 62: A Nod to History, A Step Toward the Future
The new unit will be named Squadron Number 62, paying tribute to a radar squadron that served during World War Two. It will start operations on 1 July with a small team of 15 personnel. While housed within the Air Force, Webb said he welcomes future involvement from the Navy and Army.
This initiative comes shortly after New Zealand released a new defence capability plan. The plan aims to increase defence spending to 2% of GDP over the next eight years, after years of reduced military investment.
As part of broader updates, the Air Force will replace its ageing Boeing 757s and Seasprite helicopters. However, there are currently no plans to revive a fighter jet programme, which was retired in 2001.
Space Security and Global Cooperation
The squadron’s launch follows growing global concern over space infrastructure risks and threats to satellite safety. New Zealand has joined Operation Olympic Defender—a US-led multinational initiative focused on space security.
Webb noted that the operation gives New Zealand a voice on responsible behaviour in space. “It’s about ensuring safe and continued access to space-based services by deterring potential threats,” he said.
While New Zealand’s own space capabilities are limited, Webb highlighted its strategic geographical position. He also left open the possibility of New Zealand allowing foreign military use of its ground-based space infrastructure in future operations.
“Space is now a strategic asset, and protecting it is a military responsibility,” Webb concluded. “Our role is evolving, and we are prepared to grow with it.”
with inputs from Reuters
