The first New Zealand C-130J Hercules to come off the production line in the United States has completed its first test flight.
The aircraft, with a 40m wingspan, took to the skies for more than three hours over the US states of Georgia and Alabama, reaching an altitude of 3200m and flying nearly 1000km.
Five new aircraft are on track for delivery later this year as part of a $1.5b deal signed by the government in 2020 to replace our current fleet which dates back as far as 1965.
Defence Minister Judith Collins said the C-130J was faster, flew further and held more cargo than its predecessor, the C-130H.
"It is versatile, powerful and reliable which is just what the hard-working men and women of the New Zealand Defence Force need for their challenging work in often-difficult conditions."
Soon it will be one of five to replace our 60-year-old Hercules which have been wracking up the miles maintenance costs. (Source: 1News)
The existing fleet has been an "essential" first line of response for more than 50 years, carrying troops, equipment and life-saving aid.
Collins said the Hercules ensured New Zealand was "interoperable" with key partners.
"In an increasingly complex geopolitical environment, it is hugely important that we can work with international partners in a collaborative way on international operations and joint training exercises and engagements."
Air Vice-Marshal Darryn Webb said the new C-130J would deliver "everything that its predecessor does, and more".
"These new aircraft takes us another step towards honing the modern Air Force as combat-capable, deployable and sustainable."
The new fleet will be based at RNZAF Base Auckland and operated by the Royal New Zealand Air Force's No. 40 Squadron.
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