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DTA and the Network Enabled Army

Through the Network Enabled Army (NEA) programme of work we’re helping the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) deliver modern communications to Land Forces.

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Supporting the modernisation of communications for NZDF’s Land Forces

"The programme will be delivered in four tranches over 12 years."

  • The NEA programme will modernise the C4ISR networks of the NZDF’s deployed land forces.
  • The main goal is to enable land forces and special operations forces to participate fully in joint, interagency and multinational operations.
  • DTA has supported the programme from the beginning by providing specialist advice and support in the capability definition phase of Tranche 1.

The Network Enabled Army (NEA) Programme aims to improve the operational effectiveness of the NZDF’s land forces and special operations forces.

The goal is to improve the NZDF’s ability to support deployed land forces by modernising its tactical command and control systems (C2) together with supporting computers, communications and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C4ISR) networks.

One of the main objectives is to enable land forces and special operations forces to participate fully in joint, interagency and multinational operations. This is so that the NZDF can continue to support future deployments in the South Pacific and in higher-intensity environments.

The programme will be delivered in four tranches over 12 years. It is now in the delivery phase of tranche 1 which is providing modern communications to the land force units. The systems being introduced into service include the:

  • SitaWare battle management system

Tranche 2 extends this C2 capability and introduces sensor and intelligence capabilities, and tranches 3 and 4 include upgrades to equipment and a technology refresh.

The Defence Technology Agency (DTA) was brought on board early to provide specialist advice and support in the capability definition phase, including advice on risk reduction and costing of the programme. We are continuing to advise on how to deliver the capability.