New Zealand’s first P-8A aircraft arrives home
The Royal New Zealand Air Force has welcomed home its first P-8A Poseidon. (Photo: NZDF)
New Zealand's first new maritime patrol aircraft in more than five decades has arrived at its home base.
The first of four Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft (MPAs) for the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) touched down at RNZAF Base Ohakea on 12 December.
NZ4801 completed the ferry flight via Honolulu and Fiji after Boeing formally handed it over to New Zealand at the Museum of Flight in Seattle on 7 December.
It was the 155th Poseidon to be delivered so far, to six global customers.
On the occasion, Sarah Minson, acting deputy secretary capability delivery at New Zealand’s MoD, said: ‘As a maritime nation, delivery of the P-8A will ensure New Zealand maintains a patrol and
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![What lessons could Europe learn from air power use in Ukraine?]()
What lessons could Europe learn from air power use in Ukraine?
The use of air power by both sides in the ongoing conflict has been extensively focused on, influencing policy and procurement around the world. But are the lessons from the front line universally applicable, or should other nations be planning for very different scenarios?
-
![Baykar completes Piaggio Aerospace takeover with plans to boost drone production]()
Baykar completes Piaggio Aerospace takeover with plans to boost drone production
The takeover of the Italian firm by Baykar solidifies the company’s efforts to forge closer ties with Italian industry, bolsters its partnership with Leonardo to produce UAVs and secures its foothold in Europe.
-
![US budget boosts Boeing’s F-15EX with $3.1 billion investment to increase fleet to 129]()
US budget boosts Boeing’s F-15EX with $3.1 billion investment to increase fleet to 129
The F-15EX Eagle II had already been singled out for further funding in January 2025, when it was chosen to replace the A-10 aircraft for the US National Guard.
