Boeing 757 Acquisition/Modification
Client
Royal New Zealand Air Force
Description
The Ministry of Defence acquired two B757-200 as replacement aircraft for the Royal New Zealand Air Force's (RNZAF) two ageing Boeing 727-100 QC aircraft. The two aircraft were introduced to service with the RNZAF in early May 2003. The two aircraft are currently operational in a passenger-only configuration.
The aircraft will be modified to meet New Zealand Defence Force's capability requirements for a multi-role capability. This will include passenger, freight, VIP and Aero-Medical roles.
The modifications will be based on a programme based around Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) approved Supplementary Type Certificate (STC) modifications. The modifications include, but are not limited to: the installation of a cargo door; internal access air stairs; internal aircrew access ladder; RB211-535-E4B engine thrust increase; and upgraded residual civil Communication, Navigation, Surveillance/Air Traffic Management (CNS/ATM) and military communications capabilities.
Government approval
In September 2005 the Government approved a project budget of NZ$221 million excluding GST.
Contract
Mobile Aerospace Engineering (MAE) located in Mobile Alabama, was selected as the prime system integration contractor for the modification with specialist design and support from Boeing Commercial and Boeing Integrated Defence Systems. The contract was signed in October 2005.
Current status
Delivery of the first aircraft is anticipated to be in mid 2008 and the second in late 2008.
For further information see the Royal New Zealand Air Force website (www.airforce.mil.nz) or contact:
Acquisition Division
Ministry of Defence
PO Box 12703
Molesworth Street
Wellington 6144
New Zealand
Phone: +64 4 496 0678
Fax: +64 4 496 0859
Email: info@defence.govt.nz
Data updated
January 2008