New Zealand signs $120m deal for helicopters

New Zealand's Ministry of Defense has signed a $120 million contract with the Kaman Corp. of the United States for Super Seasprite helicopters, UPI reported. The deal, which includes spare parts, a full mission flight simulator and logistics support, had been authorized earlier by the government. The 10 helicopters had earlier been ordered from Australia, which subsequently canceled the contract. The SH-2G(I) Super Seasprite is an all-weather, day/night helicopter originally designed for the U.S. Navy and suited for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, over-the-horizon targeting, surveillance, troop transport and other missions. It has a maximum speed of 159 miles per hour, a range or 869 miles and a service ceiling of 18,000 feet. Armaments include anti-ship missiles and torpedoes. Kaman said delivery of the aircraft will occur over a three-year period. The Super Seasprite is operated by the Egyptian navy and the navy of Poland