New Zealand Defence Force
Te Ope Kaatua O Aotearoa

Media Release

8 May 2008

Contract Signed For Air Force’s New Training Helos

The contract signing between the Government and AgustaWestland for the new Training and Light Utility Helicopters marks another step in the building of New Zealand’s military capability.

“The contract for five A109LUH (NZ) and a simulator will see RNZAF rotary wing training capabilities become world class,” said Chief of Air Force Air Vice-Marshal Graham Lintott.

The A109LUH (NZ) will be used for training pilots and aircrew who will later fly the NH90 Medium Utility Helicopter and SH-2G Seasprite naval helicopter, and to perform lighter helicopter missions.

“The capabilities of the A109LUH (NZ) will see it used in a number of training and light utility roles, contributing to the Air Force’s ability to meet the Government’s requirements,” said Air Vice-Marshal Lintott.

Work to build the helicopters will begin immediately at the AgustaWestland facilities near Milan, Italy in consultation with personnel from the RNZAF and the Ministry of Defence.

The aircraft are scheduled to enter service in 2011 and will be located at RNZAF Base Ohakea.

ENDS

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