US State Dept. Approves $1.46 Billion Sale of P-8A Patrol Planes to New Zealand

New Zealand will buy four P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft from the United States to replace its retired P-3K maritime patrol aircraft.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — The US Department of State has approved a $1.46 billion sale of four P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and associated support to the government of New Zealand, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a press release on Friday.

"The Government of New Zealand intends to use these defense articles and services to continue its Maritime Surveillance Aircraft (MSA) capability, following retirement of its P-3K maritime patrol aircraft," the release stated.

The agency said the sale of the Boeing aircraft will enhance regional and global contributions by New Zealand.

The P-8A Poseidon is designed for long-range anti-submarine, anti-surface warfare and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. It is based on Boeing's 737-800 aircraft.