New Zealand picks Saab communications system for future fleet tanker

The Royal New Zealand Navy has contracted Saab to deliver their TactiCall communications system for New Zealand’s future fleet tanker.

The new Maritime Sustainment Capability vessel, HMNZS Aotearoa, will be fitted with the integrated communications system which interconnects communication technologies regardless of radio band, frequency or hardware.

Electronic Navigation Ltd (ENL) will provide in-service support as Saab’s partner in New Zealand.

“This is our first sale in the region for a newly-built naval ship. The cooperation and strong partnership with ENL solidifies our presence in New Zealand,” says Ellen Molin, Head of business area Support and Services.

HMNZS Aotearoa will sustain New Zealand’s defense forces with fuel, fresh water, equipment and ammunition. It will also be ice-strengthened and ‘winterized’ for operations in Antarctica. This will allow the ship to deliver fuel and other goods to support the Scott Base and McMurdo Station, during the summer months once an icebreaker has cleared a path. Regardless of the situation, the RNZN will have a flexible and easy-to-use communications system at hand.

New Zealand’s new naval tanker is currently being built by Hyundai Heavy Industries in South Korea and is scheduled to be delivered in 2020. The new ship will replace the 30-year old tanker HMNZS Endeavour . It will be able to refuel two ships at the same time while underway, carry and refuel New Zealand Defence Force helicopters, produce and store water, and store and transport bulk goods.