Orion Upgrade Extends Defence Capability
August 27th, 2009
The first of the RNZAF’s newly upgraded P-3K2 Orion aircraft has made its initial test flight at contractor L-3 Integrated Systems’ facility in Greenville, Texas. Defence Minister Wayne Mapp says the flight is an important milestone in a complex project. The refurbished Orion is now among NZ’s most advanced defence capabilities. Mapp confirms for the first time they will be able to conduct operations over land as well as at sea. Trans Tasman understands the land application relates to intelligence gathering and surveillance. This is the first of the 6 Orions to be upgraded. The remainder will be upgraded at the Safe Air base in Blenheim, with the first scheduled to be handed over to Safe Air this week.
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Duncan Cotterill