New Zealand paid $113 million for the creation and use of the US military satellite network, RNZ reported on May 26, citing government documents released under the Official Information Act.
The majority of this amount, $83 million, was paid in 2012. In exchange, New Zealand received access to a network of 10 satellites, along with other US allies.
The island country pays a transaction fee of just over $1 million for the use of satellites. In addition, the United States asked its partners to allocate more money, after which New Zealand committed to paying $15 million to launch two. “more powerful” satellites.
It is noted that New Zealand intends to increase its space capabilities. The investment plan in this area will be outlined in the updated Defense Capability Plan, which will be presented to the New Zealand Defense Minister in June.
Recall that the New Zealand Defense Force first launched its own equipment into space in March 2024. The research module was launched into space via an American satellite. At the end of 2024, it is planned to send another experimental module into space in the same way.
Source: Rossa Primavera
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