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C-130J-30 simulator build begins, as does plans for Unimog replacement
The first phase of construction of the RNZAF’s C-130J-30 Super Hercules flight simulator has been completed in Canada, while the Ministry commences market research on replacing support vehicle fleet.
Construction of the Super Hercules flight simulator has reached an early milestone with completion of the life-sized replica cockpit in Montreal prior to shipping by road to Tampa, USA, for the installation of equipment, software and visuals.
The full-mission flight simulator is being delivered to New Zealand as part of a $1.5 billion deal with the United States Government to supply five Lockheed Martin C-130J-30 Super Hercules, along with spare parts, crew training, and a simulator.
Ministry of Defence Integrated Project Team Leader, Andrew Rooney, said the simulator is scheduled to arrive in New Zealand in 2025.
“The simulator will be located at RNZAF Base Auckland, where No. 40 Squadron, which maintains and flies the Hercs, are based,” he said.
At RNZAF Base Auckland, construction of the building to house the flight simulator is underway, with the foundation complete and tilt slab walls erected. In the two weeks to 04 October, construction crews installed 730 tonnes of concrete tilt slab walls that make up the almost 16 metre high building.
“Simulators reduce maintenance and flight time on actual aircraft, saving money and time, and reducing the risk to people and aircraft. They also improve crew safety and preparedness as they can train for different emergency situations and poor weather conditions in a simulated flight environment,” said Rooney.
Training of No. 40 Squadron’s first crew has also recently been completed. They are now certified to fly a US Air Force C-130J-30 aircraft.
All five aircraft are now on the production line. The first aircraft is fully built with its engines and systems installed, and testing has begun. The first aircraft is scheduled to touchdown in New Zealand in 2024.
Unimog and Military Support Vehicle Market Research Underway
Defence has launched a market research project to replace the NZDF’s domestic support vehicle fleet, which is currently made up of Unimog trucks and Mitsubishi Tritons.
“This Request for Information to industry is a market research tool to help inform our business case,” said Sarah Minson, Deputy Secretary Capability Delivery, Ministry of Defence.
We are asking for information about commercial off the shelf vehicles, which could replace the existing Unimog trucks and Military Support utes. The Mercedes Benz Unimogs were purchased in the 1980s and are now more than 40 years old.
In addition to the standard truck requirements, the market research is asking for information, data and pricing about lower emission vehicles – hybrid or electric. It is also asking about vehicles with a high fording depth that could drive through floodwaters or broken and disturbed ground.
This Request for Information has been issued via GETS. No decisions have been made or funding committed.
