NZ CONFIRMS C-130J SELECTION AND NH90 UPGRADE

摘要

NZ Defence Minister Ron Mark has confirmed five Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Super Hercules transport aircraft will be purchased to replace the existing fleet of C-130Hs. The acquisition is in response to the NZDF's Future Tactical Air Mobility program, which calls for an Entry into Service (EIS) in 2023. The announcement came as a blow to Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer, which had hoped to sell its new KC-390 multi-role airlifter to the RNZAF. "Last year, Cabinet selected these aircraft as the preferred option to replace the current Hercules fleet. Procurement of the Super Hercules has been my highest capability priority as Minister of Defence," Minister Mark said. "Along with the new fleet, the NZ$1.521 billion project will deliver a full mission flight simulator and other supporting infrastructure.