New Zealand renews participation in US-led defence space initiative
NZDF personnel monitor space operations activities. (New Zealand Defence Force)
New Zealand has extended its participation in the US-led Multinational Force Operation Olympic Defender (MNF OOD) until August 2028, reinforcing its military space co-operation with key allies.
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) announced the renewal on 25 September. The initiative integrates allied military space capabilities and seeks to improve readiness against emerging threats in the space domain.
New Zealand's decision to participate in MNF OOD was first announced in September 2024 by then defence minister Judith Collins.
“Olympic Defender is designed to support the security, sustainability and resilience of the space domain by coordinating member nations' space capabilities and enhancing space domain awareness,” the NZDF said.
According to the US Space Command (USSPACECOM), the other MNF OOD members are Australia, Canada, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
The NZDF said space-based capabilities play a key role in its operations by supporting communications, intelligence collection, and positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) services.
Participation in MNF OOD helps ensure continued access to these capabilities while providing access to space-domain expertise and information. It also strengthens defence co-operation with allies and promotes safe and responsible use of space, the NZDF added.
New Zealand's participation includes retaining an NZDF officer embedded with USSPACECOM in Colorado. Activities under the initiative will also be supported by the NZDF's No 62 Squadron space operations unit, established at Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) Base Auckland in July 2025.
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