Agusta-Westland A109 to Replace RNZAF Sioux

The New Zealand government has announced that is has decided upon the Agusta-Westland A109 LUH as the new training helicopter for the RNZAF. The A109s will replace the elderly Sioux that are currently used in this role.

New Zealand’s defence minister, Phil Goff, said that the government is negotiating with Agusta-Westland, and expects to sign a contract for five helicopters and a flight simulator in early 2008, although no final price has yet been announced.

In addition to its use for training, the A109 will be able to be used for search and rescue, air transport, medical evacuation, disaster response, surveillance and counterterrorism work.

Air Vice Marshal Graham Lintott, chief of the Air Force, said “This is excellent news for the Air Force and those that depend on the helicopter support we provide. The Agusta 109 is a modern and very capable training and light utility helicopter (T/LUH) with a growing international customer base and assured long-term support. It has been designed to meet current and future requirements, and provides an excellent long-term investment.” He explained that the light helicopters will provide an effective platform to train aircrew in basic helicopter operations, and will complement the more advanced skills required for the Seasprite and the NH-90s, which are due for delivery in 2010.