New Zealand Signs $120M Deal for Helicopters

New Zealand's Ministry of Defense has signed a $120 million contract with the Kaman Corp. of the United States for Super Seasprite helicopters.

The deal, which includes spare parts, a full mission flight simulator and logistics support, had been authorized earlier by the government.

The 10 helicopters had earlier been ordered from Australia, which subsequently canceled the contract.

The SH-2G(I) Super Seasprite is an all-weather, day/night helicopter originally designed for the U.S. Navy and suited for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, over-the-horizon targeting, surveillance, troop transport and other missions.

It has a maximum speed of 159 miles per hour, a range or 869 miles and a service ceiling of 18,000 feet.

Armaments include anti-ship missiles and torpedoes.

Kaman said delivery of the aircraft will occur over a three-year period.

The Super Seasprite is operated by the Egyptian navy and the navy of Poland.

[via]