Herald NOW Business

NZDF tenders for new $20 million polar drone. Danu Abeysuriya Rush Digital - Fri 23 Oct

Herald NOW Business

Summary

Amy Acton announces her candidacy for governor of Ohio, emphasizing her commitment to addressing corruption and rising costs that are burdening residents. She pledges to lower costs, cut taxes, and prevent data centers from increasing energy bills, positioning herself as a candidate for change against what she describes as the influence of billionaires in the state.

In a separate discussion, tech commentator Danushka Abusaraya examines the New Zealand Defence Force's plans to invest up to $20 million in long-range drones for operations in the Southern Ocean, including Antarctica. He outlines the specifications required for the drones, including a launch and retrieval system from naval vessels and a range of approximately 200 kilometers. Abusaraya notes the limited options available in the market and highlights the potential for local companies to meet these needs amid a shifting global defense landscape.

Abusaraya also reflects on the urgency of developing local defense technology, contrasting New Zealand's situation with the more immediate needs seen in conflict zones like Ukraine. He emphasizes the importance of long-term planning for military hardware, considering factors such as service life and local support. Additionally, he shares insights into his company's recent recognition as one of the best places to work in New Zealand, attributing this success to a strong workplace culture and a focus on employee development in the face of technological advancements.

Show Notes

Designed to operate in some of the toughest conditions on Earth - what could it deliver, and is it good value? Tech with 2degrees. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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