New Zealand runs out of helicopters

The Ministry of Defence in Wellington has decided not to rely on civilian helicopters, as was initially the case, but on proven military models such as the NH90, AW159 Wildcat, MH-60R Seahawk or a modified Bell 412. Only five of the former eight Kaman SH-2G Super Seasprite helicopters from the ten helicopters actually manufactured for Australia (Australia pulled out of the construction contract in 2008 due to time and cost overruns) are still operational, and even these should be retired by the end of 2028. They fly as on-board helicopters for the two ANZAC frigates (MEKO 200), the two Otago OPVs and the "Canterbury" (multi-purpose landing ship). As the New Zealand Air Force already operates nine NH90s - and also deploys them on board the aforementioned units - the procurement of a specific type of the four mentioned above would be obvious. But New Zealand is so far away.