New Zealand speeds up defense transformation under the influence of Donald Trump and the Chinese threat

On August 21, 2025, the New Zealand government ordered the start of the first phase of the defense sector modernization campaign, estimated at $12 billion.

According to it, Wellington will acquire 5 MH-60R Seahawk helicopters and 2 Airbus A321XLR aircraft worth $2.7 billion through the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, controlled by the State Department.

This choice is driven by the need to provide New Zealand with a modern air fleet capable of reaching Southeast Asia and Antarctica without hindrance. Accordingly, New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters held a conversation with Secretary of State Marco Rubio.