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.
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