The Defence Force has confirmed it will buy two new aircraft with additional capabilities as part of a six-year lease-to-buy scheme.
Two new Airbus A321XLR aircraft would be purchased for the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF), as part of a deal signed with US-based Air Lease Corporation.
The deal had been signalled previously, as part of the Government’s $2.7 billion investment into the Defence Capability Plan announced in April to replace the ageing Seasprites and Boeing 757s.
Overall, the plane project has capital costs of $620 million and four-year operating costs of $80.86 million.
Defence Force chief air marshal Tony Davies said the new aircraft could travel further, were more fuel efficient and would be able to accommodate around 120 passengers and 9100kg of cargo.
He also revealed key details about the livery, which was specifically designed to match the RNZAF’s current look.
“A range of options were considered before settling on the grey with a prominent kiwi roundel, sending a clear signal that they are military aircraft and are also instantly recognisable as being from New Zealand, no matter the environment,” he said.
Air Force chief air vice-marshal Darryn Webb said the new aircraft would play a “key role” in ensuring the fleet can deliver on Government tasks around the world.
“Strategic air transport plays a vital role for a country like New Zealand – responding to events of any description, whether humanitarian recovery, defence personnel deployments or important trade delegations will continue to enhance New Zealand’s interest.
“The extra-long-range capability of the Airbus A321XLR will also improve our ability to conduct key missions to Antarctica with greater safety and surety.”
The Airbus A321XLR fleet would be based at RNZAF Base Auckland and operated by No. 40 Squadron.
As they are a commercial off-the-shelf purchase, they will be fitted out and ready to operate soon after arrival in 2028.
