New space squadron unveiled

The Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) has established its first dedicated space unit with the reactivation of No. 62 Squadron today.

04 July, 2025

Minister for Space Judith Collins, Chief of Defence Force Air Marshal Tony Davies and Chief of Air Force Air Vice-Marshal Darryn Webb attended the ceremony at RNZAF Base Auckland.

“This reflects our commitment to protecting New Zealand’s interests and security in the rapidly evolving space domain,” Ms Collins says.

“Space is vital for modern life. We rely on space-based infrastructure for a range of critical services, from weather observation to financial transactions.

“This is an important signal that we’re taking space security seriously.”

Originally active during World War II, No. 62 Squadron supported Allied operations through the innovative use of radar technology. Now, its mission shifts to space domain awareness.

“The squadron’s initial focus will be on monitoring, analysing, and understanding space activity to safeguard national and international interests,” Ms Collins says.

“Recent global developments have highlighted the need for resilient, advanced defence capabilities. This move is part of the work the New Zealand Defence Force is doing to maintain a combat-capable, flexible force.”

The reactivation supports the recent Defence Capability Plan which outlined $12 billion of planned commitments to upgrade the Defence Force over the next four years.

Read the official release from the Beehive here. (external link)

Minister for Space Judith Collins, leaders from the New Zealand Defence Force and guests attend a ceremony at Base Auckland to mark the reactivation of No. 62 Squadron.

Minister for Space Judith Collins and Chief of Air Force Air Vice-Marshal Darryn Webb attend a ceremony at Base Auckland to mark the reactivation of No. 62 Squadron.

Minister for Space Judith Collins, leaders from the New Zealand Defence Force and guests attend a ceremony at Base Auckland to mark the reactivation of No. 62 Squadron.

Minister for Space Judith Collins, leaders from the New Zealand Defence Force and guests attend a ceremony at Base Auckland to mark the reactivation of No. 62 Squadron.

Minister for Space Judith Collins, leaders from the New Zealand Defence Force and guests attend a ceremony at Base Auckland to mark the reactivation of No. 62 Squadron.