New Zealand intends to expand its fleet of AgustaWestland AW109 light utility helicopters by adding three airframes, defence minister Wayne Mapp has confirmed.
Local media reports after publication of a defence white paper had suggested a follow-on purchase had been concluded, but Mapp says a formal business case must be developed and presented to cabinet.
If approved, the aircraft would be delivered within five years and would follow the five AW109s and one maintenance spare airframe already under contract for the Royal New Zealand Air Force.
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Mapp says the extra aircraft are needed because of the wide range of roles being planned for the AW109. The type will perform training and utility tasks, act as personnel transport and support anti-terrorist operations. Each will cost about NZ$15 million ($11.1 million).
Source: Flight International