The Italian Aerospace Information Web
by Aeromedia - corso Giambone 46/18 - 10135 Torino (Italy)
New Zealand without combat aircraft
In a dramatic cost-cutting move, the new government of New Zealand decided to disband the air combat capability of their Air Force. Consequently 17 McDonnell Douglas (Boeing) A-4Ks of 2nd Squadron, based at Nowra (Australia), and 75th Squadron atOhakea. The 16 Aermacchi MB-339CB lead-in trainers of 14th Squadron, also based at Ohakea, will be phased out too.
RNZAF will maintain other second-line roles comprising airlift, liaison and long range maritime surveillance with its P-3K Orions, that probably will be equipped with Harpoon anti-ship missiles.
In the picture: McDonnell Douglas (Boeing) TA-4K Skyhawk NZ6252 of 2nd Squadron, Royal New Zealand Air Force, based at the Royal Australian Navy Air Station in Nowra, New South Wales. (photo by Aeromedia)
(Aeromedia, May 2001)