The Defence Force is buying new generation Glock 17 pistols to replace the Sig Sauer pistols currently in use.
The new pistols will be introduced into service across the Navy, Army, and Air Force in the second half of 2016.
Lieutenant Colonel Dean Paul of the Land Capability Delivery Branch said the Sig Sauer P226 pistols were introduced into service in 1992 and were due to be replaced.
Australian company NIOA Nominees Pty Ltd has been awarded the $1.8 million contract to supply the NZDF with about 1900 of the new pistols.