The Weapons Industry In New Zealand
New Zealand is known around the world as the nuclear-free nation. It is known for its peacekeeping work, its commitment to finding solutions to conflict. It is surprising then that New Zealand is a place where a weapons industry is being actively supported by the Government. It is also the place where an annual weapons conference is held.
The Defence Industry Association has some 39 member companies. This grouping works to promote sales overseas and to collaborate on marketing. In some cases the products that they are selling are specifically developed for military use. Lower Hutt-based company MAS Zegrange, for example, manufactures weapons firing control systems and communication systems for mortar and artillery batteries. In other cases, the products or services are used for both civilian and military use and are being specifically marketed to the militaries of the world.
The NZ Government has been an active supporter of the Defence Industry Association. In 2003, Trade and Industry NZ gave $100,000 to Flexisolutions to develop its jungle-sweeper grenade. Along with these grants, Trade and Industry assist members to capitalise on export markets. Members of the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) and the New Zealand Ministry of Defence (MOD) are active supporters and participants in NZDIA activities. They participate through their Industry Liaison Managers who work closely with New Zealand companies to promote commercial opportunities in the supply of products and services.
Over the last four years, the Defence Industry Association has been hosting a conference at ‘Our Place’ Te Papa. At this conference New Zealand companies showcase wares developed for military use and multinational weapons manufacturers network about new technology and lucrative contracts. Representatives from corporations such as Lockheed Martin, manufacturer of a wide range of weapons and missile systems, are in attendance. In 2006, the conference will run for three days, 16-18 October.
Nobel prize winner and physicist Albert Einstein once said that, ‘You cannot simultaneously prepare for and prevent war.’ Yet by supporting a weapons industry the Government is attempting to do just that. It is supporting the companies that survive by the conduct of war while it proclaims to support peace. It even allows our national museum as a place for displaying their weaponry.
Peace Action Wellington is campaigning for: