// NH90 Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the RNZAF need new helicopters?
The RNZAF Iroquois fleet has been in service for 40 years. The Iroquois no longer offers the load carrying capacity, self-protection, communications or navigation equipment required and available in a modern aircraft. The lack of capacity and capability increases the risk in military helicopter operations and limits the service the RNZAF helicopters can provide.
What is the NH90?
The NH90 is an advanced medium utility helicopter, capable of undertaking a wide variety of roles. It was developed to meet a European requirement to replace a range of aging helicopters. The NH90 is a product of more than 10 years of development and testing to meet stringent capability and low maintenance requirements.
Why was the NH90 chosen as the new helicopter?
The NH90 is a modern helicopter, which will form the cornerstone of the New Zealand Defence Force capability over the next 30 years. The helicopter incorporates new and sustainable technologies and will ensure greater compatibility with our security partners. The NH90 represents a substantial improvement on the Iroquois and will provide the NZDF with a contemporary, highly capable and deployable helicopter.
How many NH90 helicopters will the RNZAF get?
The Minister of Defence has signed a contract with NH Industries for the purchase of eight NH90 helicopters.
What will be the role of the NH90?
The NH90 will be used for frontline military and civil operations. It has the capability to support ground operations, counter terrorism, disaster relief, search and rescue and counter-drug operations. Police, Customs, Maritime NZ, Civil Defence, Foreign Affairs and Trade and NZAID and the Department of Conservation all will be able to make effective use of the NH90.
Is the NH90 compatible with other Defence Equipment?
The NH90 can carry up to 12 fully equipped soldiers or up to 18 lightly equipped troops (allowing for door gunners). It can also lift an Army Light Operational Vehicle. Up to four NH90 will be able to be transported aboard the new Navy, Multi Role Vessel, HMNZS Canterbury or self-deploy to Australia and most of the Pacific Islands.
How much will they cost?
The fleet of eight NH90s will be acquired with a logistics and support package which includes a range of ongoing provisions for spare parts, project costs, training, software, publications support and equipment. The total cost of eight NH90s and the full support and logistics package is $771million. The support and logistics costs represent over a third of this total. The budget for the helicopter project has been allocated through the ten-year Defence Long Term Development Plan.
The final cost of the aircraft reflects a number of factors including the downward movement of the New Zealand dollar in the year prior to contract.