recce.k1
Well-Known Member
@Mr C, interesting possibility that C-2.
I see it has a a payload of 26-30 metric tons and a range of 3500 nm, meaning it could easily transport a LAVIII direct to Australia.
I wonder if the NZDF & MoD are actively considering it?
Perhaps the question (to be asked is), is it (or can it be) fitted with modern electronic counter-measures, so crucial now for military air-lifters flying into contested areas even A-Stan etc?
(Just wondering whether the JASDF has ECM fitted due to their mostly homeland self-defence role etc).
There was a recent DT thread on the C-2 too:
http://www.defencetalk.com/forums/air-force-aviation/kawasaki-c-2-400-alternatives-10199/
I guess the problem the National Govt has inherited is, the C-130H SLEP was meant to defer the long term replacement of the H for another 10 years. But if the SLEP doesn't work out then a replacement is required ASAP (creating an issue with general equipment replacement priorities). The Govt is now saying the C-130H SLEP should be "completed" by year end. We'll just have to wait that one out to see if this proves true. As said earlier IMO best the Govt look at an initial order anyway/regardless of eg 3x C-130J (or perhaps now the 2x C-2) , as the RNZAF previously said they were 3 airframes short (eg they need 8 Hercs to fulfill their taskings) even if the C-130H SLEP is successful, the RNZAF will alway have one H short due to the last 3 being upgraded one-at-a-time for the next 3 or so years etc. And then still not have enough for contingencies. I wonder if this issue is part of the Defence Whitepaper release delay?
In terms of numbers of the eventual C130H replacement, whatever they may be, 4 might not be enough. NZ seems to need to deploy 2-3 C130H simulataneously when there's trouble/emergencies (eg Timor, Tonga etc), with obviously 1 or 2 in maintenance (and/or 1 on standby for local contingencies). Perhaps we could get away with at least 4 CN-235/295's but we might need at least 5-6 C-130J/C-2 types etc.
At least the C-2 is relatively cheap (although possibly minus ECM costs to be added), the thing is, it's been reported that the NZ Govt need to get more on the Japanese Govt's radar. Seeing the NZDF don't actively exercise in Japanese waters in any major way (just good-will visits and pass-ex's etc), perhaps a C-2 purchase might be the key?
I see it has a a payload of 26-30 metric tons and a range of 3500 nm, meaning it could easily transport a LAVIII direct to Australia.
I wonder if the NZDF & MoD are actively considering it?
Perhaps the question (to be asked is), is it (or can it be) fitted with modern electronic counter-measures, so crucial now for military air-lifters flying into contested areas even A-Stan etc?
(Just wondering whether the JASDF has ECM fitted due to their mostly homeland self-defence role etc).
There was a recent DT thread on the C-2 too:
http://www.defencetalk.com/forums/air-force-aviation/kawasaki-c-2-400-alternatives-10199/
I guess the problem the National Govt has inherited is, the C-130H SLEP was meant to defer the long term replacement of the H for another 10 years. But if the SLEP doesn't work out then a replacement is required ASAP (creating an issue with general equipment replacement priorities). The Govt is now saying the C-130H SLEP should be "completed" by year end. We'll just have to wait that one out to see if this proves true. As said earlier IMO best the Govt look at an initial order anyway/regardless of eg 3x C-130J (or perhaps now the 2x C-2) , as the RNZAF previously said they were 3 airframes short (eg they need 8 Hercs to fulfill their taskings) even if the C-130H SLEP is successful, the RNZAF will alway have one H short due to the last 3 being upgraded one-at-a-time for the next 3 or so years etc. And then still not have enough for contingencies. I wonder if this issue is part of the Defence Whitepaper release delay?
In terms of numbers of the eventual C130H replacement, whatever they may be, 4 might not be enough. NZ seems to need to deploy 2-3 C130H simulataneously when there's trouble/emergencies (eg Timor, Tonga etc), with obviously 1 or 2 in maintenance (and/or 1 on standby for local contingencies). Perhaps we could get away with at least 4 CN-235/295's but we might need at least 5-6 C-130J/C-2 types etc.
At least the C-2 is relatively cheap (although possibly minus ECM costs to be added), the thing is, it's been reported that the NZ Govt need to get more on the Japanese Govt's radar. Seeing the NZDF don't actively exercise in Japanese waters in any major way (just good-will visits and pass-ex's etc), perhaps a C-2 purchase might be the key?
