STARLIFT draws in NZ as states seek rocket launchpads (opens original article in a new tab)

New Zealand has joined NATO's STARLIFT programme to improve rapid rocket launches for satellite resilience, aligning with security efforts in the Indo-Pacific region.

• New Zealand joined NATO's STARLIFT programme for faster rocket launches amid concerns over space warfare and satellite vulnerabilities.
• STARLIFT aims to enhance rapid satellite replacement capabilities, with New Zealand seeking observer status without financial or legal commitments.
• The programme is part of NATO's Indo-Pacific expansion, raising tensions with China, and involves collaboration with countries like Japan, South Korea, and Australia.