New Zealand begins discussion with Australia, Britain on replacing frigates

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May 6, 2026 7:32 PM EDT

Crew members of the Royal New Zealand Navy frigate HMNZS Te Kaha (F77) prepare to dock upon arrival at the South Harbor, for a four-day goodwill visit in metro Manila, Philippines April 4, 2017. REUTERS/Romeo Ranoco

WELLINGTON, May 7 (Reuters) - ‌New Zealand ​has ​begun discussions with Australia and Britain over replacing its ageing Anzac-class frigates, with ‌advice on a preferred path expected to go ⁠to government by the end of 2027, Defence Minister ‌Chris Penk said on ‌Thursday.

The government is considering the Japanese Mogami-class frigate, which Australia has chosen, and Britain's Type 31 ​frigate as part of a business case for replacing HMNZS Te Kaha and HMNZS ⁠Te Mana, commissioned in 1997 and 1999, respectively. Working with partners would ​help ensure interoperability and potential efficiencies, Penk said in a statement.

The work is ​part of New Zealand's 2025 ‌Defence Capability Plan, under which the government has committed to significantly lift defence ⁠spending and replace ageing equipment after what it has described as years of systemic underspend.

The plan includes ⁠maritime fleet renewal as Wellington seeks to strengthen its ability ​to protect sea lanes, support Pacific security and respond to disasters.

Penk said most of the navy's fleet would reach ‌the end of its design life by the mid-2030s, including the two Anzac ‌frigates, which provide New Zealand's main maritime combat ⁠capability.

Replacement of the ‌frigates is listed ​as an indicative investment for 2029-2039.

(Reporting by Lucy Craymer in Wellington; Editing by Lincoln ‌Feast)


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