New Light Utility Helicopters for New Zealand

New Zealand Defence Minister Phil Goff has signed a contract for the purchase of new training/light utility helicopters for the Royal New Zealand Air Force.

"The contract involves the purchase of five Agusta-Westland A109LUH helicopters, a flight simulator and an extensive package including spares, onboard equipment, tools and other equipment, with a total cost of $139 million.

"In considering tenders, we chose a higher cost aircraft because of its capability of operating at sea and training Seasprite helicopter pilots," Mr Goff said. "The purchase complements the Governments earlier decision to purchase eight NH-90 medium utility helicopters at a cost of $771 million.

"Helicopters play a key role across all three services of the Defence Force. They are amongst the most useful and heavily utilised forms of equipment -having utility for deployment, counter terrorism, command and control, search and rescue and disaster relief.

While the Agusta-Westland A109 carries a smaller load than an Iroquois, it fulfils all of the larger helicopter's roles and is much faster. It is twin-engined, has an integrated digital cockpit, and is equipped with ballistic protection and secure communications. It has an advanced autopilot and is configured for night flying. It is also wheeled, allowing for training and use from naval vessels. It will provide training for crew on the NH-90s and for the crew of the Seasprite naval helicopters.

The A109 is already used in many other defence forces including Sweden, South Africa, Malaysia, the UK, Australia, and US.

The A109s will form part of No 3 Squadron at Ohakea and will enter into service in 2011.

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