DefenseNews

New Zealand adds Sikorsky and Airbus platforms to boost air capability

Five Sikorsky MH-60R Seahawk helicopters and two Airbus A321 XLR aircraft are set to respectively replace the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s (RNZAF’s) eight Kaman SH-2G(I) Seasprites and two Boeing 757 transport aircraft at a cost of NZ$2.7 billion (US$1.17 billion). The new Airbus aircraft will cost NZ$700 million, while the Seahawks will run NZ$2 billion. The RNZAF has operated the SH-2G(I)…
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DefenseNews

Fire extinguished aboard USS New Orleans

This story has been updated. U.S. and Japanese crews extinguished the fire aboard amphibious transport docking ship New Orleans off the coast of Okinawa, Japan, two defense officials told Military Times. U.S. Navy crews, along with the Japan Coast Guard and military, put out the fire by 4 a.m. Thursday, Japan Standard Time. They had been working to extinguish the blaze for about 11 hours, since 5…
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DefenseNews

After dillydallying, Thailand proceeds with Chinese-built submarine

CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand — Once tempted to ditch its acquisition of a Chinese-built S26T diesel-electric submarine, Thailand has decided the project will now proceed. The cause of the indecision was China’s failure to obtain German diesel engines for the submarine, and its proposal to substitute Chinese variants instead. However, the Thai Cabinet approved a contract amendment on Aug. 5, which…
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DefenseNews

New Zealand soldier admits to attempted espionage

WELLINGTON, New Zealand — A New Zealand soldier who tried to spy for a foreign power has admitted to attempted espionage in a military court. Monday’s conviction was the first for spying in New Zealand’s history. The soldier’s name was suppressed, as was what country he sought to pass secrets to. Military court documents said the man believed he was engaged with a foreign agent in 2019…
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