National chalks up win on military transport

National is pleased the Government is finally heeding our calls to advance its programme to fund defence projects including a revamp of military transport, says National Defence Spokesman Richard Worth.

“I am pleased the Government has approved two new aircraft to replace its current Boeing 727 transport jets, and an upgrade of the Hercules transport planes.

“Over the last three years the Air Force has been plagued with breakdowns and serviceability problems in both the Boeing and Hercules fleets, causing disruption and embarrassment to our forces.

“The movement of service personnel and equipment to off-shore locations is a critical aspect of defence operations but the breakdowns have hindered these operations for sometime.

“RNZAF maintenance personnel have also required to keep old military transport planes flying in very difficult circumstances.

“The Government’s decision to purchase two new aircraft and upgrade the Hercules fleet is a result of relentless pressure by National to address continued problems within our transport fleet.

“The focus should now move on to a greater priority which is the Orion upgrade. It is unacceptable that our Orions are not compatible with their Australian counterparts,” Mr Worth said.

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