The New Zealand Defence Force has revealed what its new planes will look like.
These Airbus A321XLR aircraft will replace the older Boeing 757s and are expected to be ready for use in 2028.
The planes are designed to transport military personnel, equipment, and also support diplomatic and trade missions. Each can carry about 120 passengers and around 9,000 kilograms of cargo, and they can fly farther than the current aircraft.
The Defence Force is getting the planes through a six-year lease-to-buy deal with a company in the United States. The cost includes $620 million in capital and nearly $81 million for operating over four years.
The new planes will feature a grey paint design with a large Kiwi roundel. This symbol helps identify the aircraft as part of the Royal New Zealand Air Force, no matter where they are in the world.
Air Vice-Marshal Darryn Webb, head of the Air Force, said these planes are important for many tasks. These include helping in emergencies, transporting soldiers, and supporting trade missions. He also said the new planes would be better for long trips, including safer missions to Antarctica.
