Delivered in 2015 to replace the previous SH-2G (NZ) model, these helicopters have an important role to play in enhancing the capabilities of the RNZN fleet and fulfil a range of roles. The Naval Helicopter Force (NHF) is provided by No. 6 Squadron RNZAF which is equipped with a fleet of four Seasprites, operated by the RNZN and maintained by the RNZAF. Powered by two 1,600 hp General Electric T700 turbines, the Seasprites are primarily used as integrated air assets from the ANZAC Frigates and at times the Multi Role Vessel HMNZS Canterbury, in order to provide a range of capabilities from logistic support to combat operations. The Seasprite helicopter is operated by a three-person crew - a pilot, an observer who specialises in warfare and mission command, and a helicopter loadmaster who directs utility operations. For combat operations the Seasprite can be equipped with Penguin anti-ship missiles, Mk 46 torpedoes and the Mag 58 General Purpose Machine Gun.
The RNZAF’s Pratt & Whitney (Canada) PT6A-68 powered T-6C Texan II are built to order aircraft manufactured by Beechcraft Defence Systems in the USA. The Defence Force officially took ownership of the Texan IIs on 31 October 2014 with an order placed for 11 aircraft and a complete training package, including two fixed base flight simulators and 12 avionics desktop trainers. The aircraft were all received over 2014/15 and now operate as 14 Squadron at RNZAF Base Ohakea. The T-6Cs are being used to train RNZAF pilots and deliver 15-20 appropriately trained pilots annually. Following completion of the WINGS course, pilots move straight into either multi-engine conversion training (fixed-wing aircraft) or rotary-wing conversion training (helicopters). In addition, the Central Flying School (CFS) uses the Texan IIs for the training of flying instructors and they field the Black Falcon aerobatic team. The Texans have replaced the CT-4E Air Trainer, the B200 King Air fleet remaining as the multi-engine conversion training aircraft.The T-6Cs are purpose built for military training and have the latest technology, including ejection seats, collision-avoidance and ground awareness warning systems, a pressurised cockpit and personal locator beacons for each pilot. The T-6C fleet has a 30-year lifespan and Airbus NZ maintains these aircraft on a daily basis.At Classic Fighters the RNZAF will provide a solo Texan display each day.
The Agusta A109 LUH (NZ) is part of the NZ Defence Force's helicopter training system which includes a virtual interactive procedural trainer, a full flight simulator and the fleet of five helicopters. This provides a comprehensive and cost-effective means of training aircrew prior to operational conversion onto the NH90 Medium Utility Helicopter and SH-2G Seasprite naval helicopter. In addition to its training role the A109LUH is utilised in various operational tasks, including support to other government agencies, disaster relief and personnel transport in a light utility role. Operated by the Helicopter Transition Unit at RNZAF Base Ohakea, the A109s replaced the RNZAF’s ageing, piston powered Bell Sioux trainers. They were acquired under a contract signed in 2008 for the acquisition of the five A109s, an additional A109 airframe to be used as a source of spares, a simulator and a support package. The first two helicopters, one of which was the spares airframe, arrived at Ohakea in March 2011.Built by Agusta-Westland (Italy), this helicopter was the first all-Italian helicopter to be mass-produced and it is also in use by the armed forces of Australia, United Kingdom, Malaysia, South Africa, Sweden and also the US Coast Guard.This year at Classic Fighters three Squadron will be flying their 2 ship synchro pair which as a very impressive display.
Please note that all military aircraft are subject to operational demands.
The RNZAF has a long association with the Blenheim region with training bases established here during WWII and RNZAF Base Woodbourne continuing as a vital part of today's Air Force. We are looking forward to welcoming the RNZAF to Marlborough Lines Classic Fighters in 2025!
About Marlborough Lines Classic Fighters Omaka: The airshow is the main fundraising event for the Omaka Aviation Heritage Museum, located in Blenheim, Marlborough NZ.
