The incredible world of Kiwi-made drones

Obsidian Systems, located in Auckland's far north, is a secretive high-tech facility specializing in drone manufacturing. Its CEO, Philip Solaris, describes his company as the "Skunk Works" of robots, a term used to describe elite military research and development teams. Solaris invites The Detail to explore his workspace, which overlooks a valley of native bush and the Hauraki Gulf. The facility showcases drones and their applications in conservation, disaster response, and defense.

The New Zealand government recently announced plans to purchase long-range one-way strike drones, seeking information from local industries to review, test, and select the drones by the end of March. The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) will determine the drones' use based on factors like manufacturing, delivery, integration, and personnel training. Defence is also researching unarmed long-range unmanned aircraft for maritime surveillance tasks, with a request for information from businesses.

Solaris, with nearly two decades of experience in robotic systems, believes New Zealand companies can compete globally in drone manufacturing. He emphasizes that small, sophisticated drones can be produced in large quantities, surpassing the ability to build large ships. Solaris recalls a past offer to supply drones to Ukraine during its conflict with Russia, but the Labour government declined due to dual-use restrictions, which were later lifted.

He mentions Bob, an eight-year-old drone used for surveillance, which can identify boats and relay information to the vessel's autopilot. Despite the potential benefits, Solaris warns about the unintended consequences of drone use in disaster zones, citing the Tibet earthquake in 2022, which inadvertently exposed sensitive sites and had severe economic repercussions.