| The NZDF Files - Project Protector
- Introduction of New RNZN Fleet
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12 January 2007
Project Protector
This project is a substantial step
forward in the capacities of the Royal New Zealand Navy. With the
commissioning of the Off Shore Patrol Vessels (OPV), Inshore Patrol
Vessels (IPV) and the Multi-role Vessel (MRV) this modernisation
allows the Navy to pursue and plug several Defence policy gaps which
have either been completely lacking or have a limited and out dated
capacity to fulfill.
The MRV includes required mobility
and deployment options for the New Zealand Army which have been
significantly absent in recent operations. It permits the ferrying
of a enhanced company sized unit and up to 40 Light Armoured Vehicles
(NZLAV). This is in line with the need for the NZDF to be able to
maintain a light infantry company as a ready reaction force at short
notice.
The MRV, HMNZS Canterbury carries its
own SH-2G helicopter, can carry an additional four of the RNZAF
NH90 helicopters and can carry in excess of thirty cargo containers.
There are two 55 tonne Landing Craft Medium (LCM) vessels to ferry
troops, vehicles and equipment to shore. They are able to carry
two NZLAV each. All told the MRV will serve its purpose well, to
the full requirements of the NZDF and would be a considerable maritime
contribution to any coalition effort New Zealand is involved in
in the future.
Two modern Off Shore Vessels (OPV)
will permit the surveillance and security of the country's 200 mile
EEZ and further afield. Assisting in SAR operations, humanitarian
work and civil defence missions are all significant including those
pertaining to military operations. With a capacity to embark thirty
personnel in addition to its standard crew compliment the OPV is
able to carry a platoon of soldiers in a rapid reaction or reconnaissance
role. The RNZN Seasprite is able to land on the IPV further enhancing
its operational capabilities and self defence against various potential
threats.
There are four Inshore Patrol Vessels
being commissioned in staggered succession throughout 2007. These
will perform similar roles to the OPV but are operationally limited
to approximately 24 nautical miles from the coastline.
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