A New Zealand-developed virtual reality training system is set to reach defence forces worldwide following a new partnership between Hamilton-based tech firm Company-X and global defence contractor Babcock International. Announced at the Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition (INDOPAC) in Sydney, the agreement marks a major step in taking Kiwi-made simulation capabilities to an international defence audience.
Company-X already supplies immersive VR training tools to the Royal New Zealand Navy, where its simulation systems are used to strengthen operational readiness through realistic, interactive learning environments. The new agreement will see Babcock incorporate these technologies into its global naval training and support programmes, expanding their reach across allied militaries.
Lance Bauerfeind, Head of Training and Simulation at Company-X, said the partnership reflects the growing appetite for New Zealand’s defence innovation. “Our simulation training and development is already trusted by the Royal New Zealand Navy to improve operations through immersive and interactive experiences. The signing of this agreement means the ongoing development of systems that run the world better while continuing to showcase the exceptional talent that will secure the borders and future of Kiwis, both domestically and abroad.”
Babcock International — which has operated from Devonport Naval Base for nearly 30 years — says the partnership signals confidence in the depth and reliability of New Zealand’s defence-technology ecosystem. The agreement was formally signed in the presence of Sir Nick Hine, CEO Marine at Babcock International, and Gary Bancroft, Head of Supply Chain.
New Zealand Associate Minister of Defence Chris Penk welcomed the move, saying it is encouraging to see large global suppliers deepen their engagement with local defence-industry partners and strengthen domestic supply-chain capability.
At INDOPAC, Bauerfeind also presented on the evolving role of simulation and VR in modern naval operations, highlighting how AI-driven efficiency and immersive training can help solve complex operational challenges and improve safety outcomes.
For Babcock, the partnership reinforces the value of building resilience through diversified supply chains and integrating high-performing local technologies into its broader global operations. For Company-X, it represents a major step toward global deployment of New Zealand’s emerging defence-tech talent — and a signal that VR-enabled training is becoming an essential capability for modern naval forces.
Photo caption | From left to right: Associate Minister of Defence Chris Penk; Gary Bancroft, Head of Supply Chain at Babcock International; Lance Bauerfeind, Head of training and Simulation at Company-X; and Sir Nick Hine, CEO Marine at Babcock International. They are pictured signing the agreement between global defence company Babcock International and Hamilton based tech firm Company-X at the Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition in Sydney.
