The first of four Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft that Boeing will produce for New Zealand was delivered at a ceremony held at the Flight Museum at Wednesday. The delivery followed an agreement the New Zealand Government signed with the US Navy four years ago.

The remaining three aircraft are expected to be delivered in 2023, after production is completed. The aircraft will be deployed at Royal New Zealand Air Force Base Ohakea, replacing New Zealand’s existing fleet of six P-3K2 Orions.

Boeing Defense Australia will provide maintenance services for New Zealand’s fleet with support from the P-8 International Programme.

Sarah Minson, Acting Secretary of Talent Delivery, Ministry of Defense of New Zealand said: ‘’ As a maritime nation, delivery of the P-8A will ensure that New Zealand has a patrol and response capability to protect and support law enforcement in our Exclusive Economic Zone and Southern Ocean. The P-8A will also assist our South Pacific neighbors and offer long-range search and rescue capability.’’

Philip June, Vice President and P-8 Programs Manager said: ‘’ The P-8’s unique, multi-mission maritime patrol capabilities will allow New Zealand to reach out to the Pacific and beyond. New Zealand joins eight other global customers, including nearby Australia, who have chosen or are already using the P-8 and benefit greatly from its long-range maritime surveillance and combat capabilities.’’

Philip June, Vice President and P-8 Programs Manager said: ‘’ The P-8’s unique, multi-mission maritime patrol capabilities will allow New Zealand to reach out to the Pacific and beyond. New Zealand joins eight other global customers, including nearby Australia, who have chosen or are already using the P-8 and benefit greatly from its long-range maritime surveillance and combat capabilities.’’