DoD lifts ban on New Zealand warships

Secretary Leon Panetta announced the change as he concluded a tour of Asian and Pacific countries. But New Zealand's Defense Minister said U.S. ships still may ...

The Defense Department lifted a 26-year-old ban on New Zealand warships entering U.S. bases.

Secretary Leon Panetta announced the change as he concluded a tour of Asian and Pacific countries. But New Zealand’s Defense Minister said U.S. ships still may not enter its waters.

Back in 1986, New Zealand banned any U.S ship either nuclear powered or carrying nuclear weapons. The U.S. reciprocated. Panetta said the administration unilaterally lifted the ban to enhance a new security agreement forged between the two countries. Panetta lifted bans on joint exercises. And the U-S may help New Zealand increase its amphibious capabilities.

This story is part of Federal News Radio’s daily DoD Report. For more defense news, click here.

Copyright © 2024 Federal News Network. All rights reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

    Pentagon Austin

    Pentagon finishes review of Austin’s failure to tell Biden and other leaders about his cancer

    Read more
    Congress Defense

    Big pay raise for troops in defense bill sent to Biden. Conservatives stymied on cultural issues

    Read more