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// RNZAF Capability Development

Return of the first upgraded Boeing 757. AK08036408

The Office of the Deputy Chief of Air Force (ODCAF) is responsible for capability development within the RNZAF. Within the ODCAF are three branches: Plans, Capability and Resources. The Capability Branch is headed by the Assistant Chief of Air Force - Capability, a senior Air Force officer of Group Captain rank.

The Air Force Capability Branch is responsible for RNZAF force development, capability formulation, and RNZAF input into the higher-level project development and procurement processes.

Specifically, the RNZAF Capability Branch is responsible for:

  • specialist advice on NZDF aviation capability in particular and aviation capability issues in general
  • RNZAF input into the Strategic Capability Planning Process and MOD acquisition processes
  • the provision of Air Force advice and support to HQNZDF (Development Branch) and the provision of personnel for HQNZDF Project Teams
  • oversight of all RNZAF contributions to major capital equipment projects
  • management of RNZAF minor capital and discretionary capital equipment projects; and,
  • management of RNZAF project and introduction into service teams.

NZDF Long Term Development Plan

The NZDF Long Term Development Plan (LTDP) was updated by Government in October 2006. This plan outlines the major defence capital acquisitions planned over the next ten years and provides planning guidance in terms of programme priorities, anticipated project timeframes and indicative project cost ranges. While the LTDP will be a 'living document', reflecting changing circumstances and priorities, the Air Force has a number of capital programmes that must be addressed immediately.

NZDF programmes on the current LTDP for RNZAF capabilities which are already in contract include:

  • upgrades to the P-3K Orion mission management, communication and navigation systems
  • modification of the Boeing 757 to meet global air traffic requirements and provide a cargo/passenger combination role
  • life extension to the C-130H Hercules fleet, by structural upgrades and extensive modifications to communications and navigation equipment and,
  • replacement of the UH-1H Iroquois with the NH-90 to provide the NZDF’s contemporary needs for a Medium Utility Helicopter.

NZDF programmes on the current LTDP for RNZAF capabilities which have yet to reach contract include:

  • replacement of the Sioux Helicopter with a new Training Helicopter with the capability to also meet requirements for Light Utility Helicopter capability
  • replacement of the Advanced Pilot Training Capability (currently provided by leased B200 Kingairs)
  • upgrade of self-protection equipment on the C-130H Hercules which provides defence against infra-red Man Portable Air Defence Systems (MANPADS) and,
  • provision of self-protection equipment on the P-3K Orion to provide defence against MANPADS.

 

Contact Details:
Air Force Public Relations
Wellington
New Zealand
Ph +64 4 496 0294
Email Air Force Public Relations