[JLRC]

New Zealand Picks NH Industries to Supply Air Force Helicopters  
 
 
(Source: press reports; published March 31, 2005)
 
 
 New Zealand has selected NH Industries to supply new NH90 helicopters to replace the New Zealand Air Force’s UH-1B Iroquois, Minister of Defence Mark Burton was quoted as announcing to several local news organizations.  
 
The government plans to spend as much as NZ$550 million (US $389 million) to procure new helicopters, including the NH90 and a new light-utility helicopter to replace the current Sioux.  
 
No decision has been made on the number of NH90s to be bought to replace the RNZAF’s fourteen Iroquois, which are nearing obsolescence. (ends)  
 
 
 
 Chief of the Air Force Welcomes Selection of NH90
 
 
(Source: New Zealand Defence Force; issued March 31, 2005)
 
 
 The Chief of Air Force, Air Vice-Marshal John Hamilton has today welcomed a Government announcement that the NH90 will replace the Air Force’s fleet of Iroquois Helicopters.  
 
“This is excellent news for the Air Force and those that depend on the helicopter support we provide,” says Air Vice-Marshal Hamilton.  
 
“The NH90 will step us into the next generation of helicopter. It will provide huge performance gains over the Iroquois that will enable greater weights carried further and much improved night and poor weather capabilities,” he said.  
 
While today’s decision is an important step there is still much work to be done with NH Industries to finalise costs, numbers of aircraft and delivery schedules.  
 
“Alongside this, the Air Force will work to consider the implications on training, trades, and support structures. We must also continue to support the Iroquois fleet over the next few years until the NH 90s are accepted into service.”  
 
Work also continues to progress the selection of a helicopter to replace the Sioux.  
 
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