US Approves $1.5B Sale of Maritime Helicopters to New Zealand for Enhanced Defense Cooperation

US Approves $1.5 Billion Sale of Seahawk Helicopters to New Zealand

The US Department of State announced its approval for a potential Foreign Military Sale to New Zealand, including five MH-60R Multi-Mission Helicopters and related equipment.

Under President Trump’s administration, the US has been urging allies in Europe and Asia-Pacific to increase military spending. New Zealand, an ally of Australia, is increasingly active in East Asia to support Western militaries amid China’s growing military power.

The State Department stated that the proposed sale will enhance New Zealand’s capability to address current and future warfare threats, providing greater security for its critical infrastructure. It also aims to strengthen homeland defense.

As part of a 2025 plan, New Zealand intends to increase defence spending by NZ$9 billion ($5 billion) over four years, nearly doubling it to 2% of GDP in eight years. Last month, Wellington allocated NZ$1.58 billion ($916 million) for new defence funding as the country upgrades its forces.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon reiterated his commitment to raising defence spending after decades of underinvestment in New Zealand’s military forces.