And the aircraft which patrol our maritime borders could come off the same factory line. The Japanese company is among contenders as the NZ Defence Force prepares to replace some of its oldest and most essential kit. Among them is the Hercules transporter which has been in Royal NZ Air Force service since 1965. The heightened speculation comes after Japan took the opportunity to offer the Kawasaki P-1 maritime patrol aircraft to survey Kaikoura and affected areas after the November quake. The NZDF spokesman said it was considering a number of options to replace the P-3K2 and the Hercules.

Source: New Zealand Herald January 13, 2017 16:02 UTC