Australia’s Grand Nuclear Submarine-Fleet Plan 
Joel Seligman and the Shadow SEC 
Taiwanese authorities charge executives who helped China’s cyber spies target ICIJ network 
New Zealand intends to spend about NZ$1.6 billion (US$936 million) on drones, ship maintenance and naval upgrades to bolster the island nation’s maritime security at a time of increasing concern about supply routes.
Defence Minister Chris Penk said on Saturday that the government would invest in two types of drones: one for the southwest Pacific to provide long-duration intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and the other a polar-capable vehicle that could operate from naval vessels in the Southern Ocean.
“New Zealand’s prosperity and security depend on the sea,” Penk said in a statement.
Recent events have served as a reminder of how quickly disruptions to international shipping routes can affect economies and supply chains
“Recent events have served as a reminder of how quickly disruptions to international shipping routes can affect economies and supply chains across the globe. The oceans are not a barrier to danger, but a vital national interest that must be actively secured.”
Advertisement
New Zealand will hand down its annual budget next week.
The government plans to lift defence spending to about two per cent of gross domestic product from around one per cent at present in response to rising geopolitical tensions.
Advertisement
Penk, who served in both the New Zealand and Australian navies, said earlier this month that the government was open to expanding its frigate fleet from the current two vessels.
Don't Miss:
-
Google DeepMind director Cao Liangliang makes a boomerang-return to Hong Kong
-
Philippine president backs defence chief over China sanctions
-
IVF embryo mix-up undisclosed for weeks sparks calls for 24-hour reporting rule
-
New York City races to secure unstable skyscraper after columns buckle and floors sag
-
Hong Kong stocks rise as rallies from Alibaba, SMIC, other tech giants lift market sentiment