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
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Poland’s naval modernisation plans point to $13 billion market]()
Poland’s naval modernisation plans point to $13 billion market
Poland is reshaping its naval capabilities through investments in surface and undersea fleets, with further procurement opportunities expected into the 2030s.
-
![Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders]()
Autonomy gives Turkey a chance to outflank established naval shipbuilders
Turkish shipbuilders have sold ships from Asia to Europe, but autonomy and swarm technology could give them a fairer fight against Western European rivals.
-
![Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq]()
Canada assesses security equipment changes for Polar Icebreaker Imnaryuaq
The Canadian Department of National Defence is evaluating communications and reconnaissance changes for CCGS Imnaryuaq’s expanded maritime security role, while retaining its 2032 acceptance target.
