New Zealand has begun coordinating with the defense industry in its plans to replace the air force’s Boeing 757 transport aircraft.
The strategy aims to result in options with capabilities similar to the 757, including logistics support for military personnel and equipment, as well as trade and diplomatic missions.
Work is now in the process of negotiations with “a number of aviation companies,” according to New Zealand’s national defense agency.
The specific evaluations include “delivery times, availability, and ownership” of the future aircraft.
“The next stage of the process will be the development of a business case for Cabinet consideration,” the New Zealand Ministry of Defence announced. “No decisions have been made or funding committed.”
“This process does not commit the Crown to any expenditure but will be used to develop a business case which will include indicative costings.”
More Efficient Assets Required
Wellington’s decision to replace the Royal New Zealand Air Force 757s was due to the high expenses of sustaining them.
Since their employment in 2003, the airlifters have encountered a series of breakdowns, most of which were due to engine malfunctions.
Among the instances was an “unscheduled” landing in Papua New Guinea in June due to a fuse issue.
“Escalating costs coupled with extended periods of unserviceability has led the government to ask for advice on possible replacement of the B757s,” a New Zealand government spokesperson told local news agency RNZ.
New Zealand’s Boeing 757 is powered by twin Rolls-Royce B211 engines, enabling a top speed of 850 kilometers (528 miles) per hour and a range of 7,222 kilometers (4,488 miles).