New Zealand requests P-8A aircraft
The US State Department has made a determination approving a potential $1.46 billion foreign military sale to New Zealand for P-8A patrol aircraft and associated support, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced on 28 April.
New Zealand is seeking new aircraft for maritime surveillance as its current six P-3K2 Orion maritime patrol aircraft head towards retirement from service in the mid-2020s.
An RfI for a Future Air Surveillance Capability was issued last year, and an RfP is expected in 2018 to kick off a formal competition.
New Zealand's request includes up to four P-8A aircraft. The aircraft will be fitted with commercial engines, tactical open mission software, electro-optical and infrared MX-20HD, the AN/AAQ-2(V)1 acoustic system, AN/APY-10 radar and ALQ-240 electronic support measures.
Supporting equipment includes eight Multifunctional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio System, five Guardian laser transmitter assemblies for the AN/AAQ-24(V)N, system processors for AN/AAQ-24(V)N, AN/AAR-54 missile warning sensors for the AN/AAQ-24(V)N, and LN-251 with embedded GPS/inertial navigation systems.
Training, support and engineering services are also included in the package.
If New Zealand opts for the P-8A in the future, the prime contractor for the contract will be Boeing.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
You may also like
More from Naval Warfare
-
![The Netherlands cleared to purchase $2.2 billion in Tomahawk missiles]()
The Netherlands cleared to purchase $2.2 billion in Tomahawk missiles
The approved purchase is for Tomahawk Block IV and Block V missiles, control systems, telemetry missiles and communication and broadcast systems.
-
![The Philippines strengthens maritime defences amid rising tensions in South China Sea]()
The Philippines strengthens maritime defences amid rising tensions in South China Sea
The Philippine Navy is fast-tracking its maritime modernisation with new warships, unmanned platforms, and international shipbuilding partnerships to bolster its regional deterrence posture.
-
![Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA]()
Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA
Taiwan is strengthening its deterrence against the PLA through an asymmetric arsenal that includes fast mine-laying vessels and domestically developed UAVs.
-
![L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts]()
L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts
L3Harris is targeting European naval modernisation with new uncrewed surface vessels, SATCOM partnerships, and regional investments including defence exercises and facility openings.
-
![Interview: DSTA collaborates with Leonardo, Thales and Safran for naval C-UAS]()
Interview: DSTA collaborates with Leonardo, Thales and Safran for naval C-UAS
In an exclusive interview with Shephard, DSTA chief Ng Chad-son outlines how the agency is reshaping defence tech development through deeper collaboration with industry partners, from AI-enhanced radar to smart naval munitions.
-
![BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft]()
BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft
The agreement is intended to boost opportunities for both UK and Norwegian naval shipbuilding.
