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Protected Mobility Capability Project

The Protected Mobility Capability Project focuses on the improvement of the land mobility capability for the New Zealand Defence Force.

The Protected Mobility Project is replacing NZDF’s main operational land vehicle fleets, providing New Zealand troops with enhanced protection. This includes both armoured and non-armoured vehicles suited to a wide range of operations.

The Project is being run in stages over ten years, ensuring that New Zealand’s land forces remain suitably resourced for operations now and in the future.

Phase One of the Protected Mobility Capability project is replacing the capability of the armoured Pinzgauer and operational Unimog fleets with a Protected Vehicle – Medium fleet comprised of 43 Bushmaster NZ5.5 vehicles. Phase One also introduces Polaris MRZR vehicles as the High Mobility – Light fleet.

Current status

During 2022/23, delivery of the Bushmasters commenced and as at the end of September, all 43 vehicles have been delivered with the final batches progressing through acceptance and compliance testing. Instructor training for operation and maintenance of the vehicles is being delivered by the vender and will be completed in November 2023.

At 31 October the High Mobility – Light Fleet remains on schedule for Operational Release in late 2023.

Above: An NZDF Polaris MRZR 

Background

The replacement of the existing armoured Pinzgauers with the Bushmaster NZ5.5 was announced in July 2020. The Australian-manufactured Bushmaster improves our ability to undertake population support and peacekeeping missions. The Bushmaster is used extensively by overseas partners and will provide our personnel with greater protection, flexibility and versatility. (external link)

Contact: Nick Gillard, Director Land Domain
Email: industry@defence.govt.nz

Updated: October 2023