Fourth Poseidon for New Zealand

The Boeing company announced on 13 July 2023, that the fourth and final P-8A Poseidon destined for the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF), serial NZ4804 (c/n 67020), left the USA on its delivery flight to ‘down under’.

The first of an order of four, serial NZ4801 (c/n 67017) started flying from RNZAF Base Ohakea on 25 January 2023. Scramble reported earlier on this event, here. The numbers two and three (NZ4802, c/n 67018 and NZ4803, c/n 67019) were delivered in the past months.

Some years ago New Zealand sought a replacement for its six upgraded P-3K2 Orions, in a project called ‘Future Air Surveillance Capability’. Several candidates were considered, including the Airbus/EADS C295 MPA, a maritime surveillance development of Embraer’s E2 regional jet, and Japan’s Kawasaki P-1.

Finally four Poseidons were ordered to replace the P-3K2 Orions of No.5 sq. With any doubt the decision of the Australian Government to buy fifteen P-8A Poseidons may have had some influence on the New Zealand decision. Sharing spareparts or cooperation in maintenance can only svane money!

With the new Poseidons, the RNZAF is ready for its maritime surveillance task for the next decades!

Photo: RNZAF