New Zealand signs up for Super Hercules
Without going to competitive tender, the New Zealand government has ordered five Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Super Hercules transport aircraft via the Foreign Military Sales avenue. These will replace its incumbent C-130H fleet.
The Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) will gain five aircraft and a full-mission flight simulator through a sole-source procurement worth NZ$1.52 billion ($990 million), an amount that also includes ground infrastructure upgrades for the aircraft.
Defence Minister Ron Mark announced the acquisition on 5 June, even though the Cabinet had already approved the prospective deal last year.
Mark commented: ‘This decision ensures the defence force will
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