New Zealand follows British RAF for Poseidon training courses

Catalyst Cloud will provide the sovereign hosting solution for the training development environment, and Copernicus Technology will bring development experience for the RAF P-8A training courses using the Aquila ALaRMS Learning Management System.

“We are delighted to continue our support of NZDF Air Surveillance Reconnaissance Force capability,” said Brian Fearnley, a major programs business director for Beca.

“Following a 15-year association in the upgrade and support of the recently retired P-3K2 Orion, Beca are again engaged in a critical support and enabling role for the newly acquired RNZAF P-8A Poseidon fleet.”

The first of four new P-8 Poseidons touched down in New Zealand late last year.

The P-8 Poseidon is a maritime patrol aircraft used for various roles, including reconnaissance and search and rescue. The Boeing-built aircraft is a military variant initially based on Boeing’s workhorse narrow-body 737 Next Generation.

It’s equipped with advanced sensors and mission systems, including a multi-role radar, high-definition cameras, a high-processing acoustic system, and an extensive communications suite.

New Zealand’s prospective P-8A Poseidon fleet — to be based out of Royal New Zealand Air Force Base Ohakea — is set to replace its retired P-3K2 Orions.

“As a maritime nation, delivery of the P-8A will ensure New Zealand maintains a patrol and response capability that will protect and support law enforcement in our Exclusive Economic Zone and Southern Ocean,” Sarah Minson, acting deputy secretary, capability delivery, New Zealand Ministry of Defence, said.

“The P-8A will also assist our South Pacific neighbours and deliver long-range search and rescue capability.”

Delivery of New Zealand’s first P-8A Poseidon comes just months after Boeing Defence Australia secured a contract to sustain the fleet.