The Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) is set to enhance its aircrew training capabilities with a new partnership between CAE and the New Zealand Defence Force. CAE New Zealand has been awarded a contract to deliver long-term sustainment and support for the C-130J Weapon Systems Trainer at RNZAF Base Auckland.
The agreement ensures that CAE will oversee the management, engineering, and maintenance of the simulator, providing through-life support for the training system. With extensive experience in C-130 operations throughout the Indo-Pacific, CAE’s expertise will help maintain a high standard of aircrew training, ultimately strengthening New Zealand’s strategic and tactical airlift capabilities.
“CAE is proud to strengthen its long-standing partnership with the New Zealand Defence Force, building on a decade of delivering world-class support to achieve superior training outcomes and enhanced operational readiness of personnel,” shared Andrew Niles, General Manager — New Zealand, CAE Defense & Security.
“CAE innately understands the requirements for maintaining a high-fidelity training device, ensuring the New Zealand Defence Force benefits from a training partner who can deliver bespoke visual content development, increased device availability, and scalable training operations that enable pilots to develop best practices and advanced skills that are essential for live missions.”
No. 40 Squadron at RNZAF Base Auckland will serve as the hub for this advanced training solution. By utilizing the local simulator, aircrew will be able to shift complex training exercises from live aircraft to a controlled virtual environment, improving safety and efficiency.
Established in 2013, CAE New Zealand is a division of CAE Defense & Security. The company has played a crucial role in supporting RNZAF training and maintenance across multiple platforms, including T-6C Texans, SH-2G(I) Seasprite helicopters, and NH90 helicopters. With this latest contract, CAE continues to expand its contributions to New Zealand’s defence capabilities, reinforcing its position as a key provider of training and simulation services in the region.
