Led by the Ministry of Defence, an integrated project team is working with Boeing to install the facility inside the purpose-built Te Whare Toroa building for No. 5 Squadron. It will include a full-motion flight simulator designed to replicate real flight conditions.
“The P-8A Poseidon aircraft training facility will be a critical tool for the New Zealand Defence Force, improving training capabilities, reducing risk to crew and aircraft, and providing significant savings in Poseidon operating costs,” said Sarah Minson, Deputy Secretary of Capability Delivery at the Ministry of Defence. The simulator will enhance safety and operational readiness by offering a realistic, controlled training environment.
The facility will, for the first time in New Zealand, integrate a range of simulation tools to train both aircrew and technical personnel. “Simulation training tools provide a safe and secure space for crew to learn and maintain skills on aircraft systems, reducing risk as well as the number of hours required for flight training. They also increase the availability of aircraft for NZDF operations,” added Minson.
The simulator mimics the cockpit of the P-8A Poseidon, allowing crews to practise emergency responses and difficult weather conditions. It is part of a wider $2.3 billion project that delivered four Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft in 2023, alongside mission systems, ground support equipment, and spare parts.
New Zealand’s approach aligns with its defence partners—the United States Navy, Royal Australian Air Force, and United Kingdom Royal Air Force—all of which already employ similar training systems. The collaboration ensures consistency in training standards across allied Poseidon fleets.
Since entering service, New Zealand’s P-8A Poseidon aircraft have been used for diverse missions, including enforcing United Nations sanctions against North Korea and rescuing lost Fijian fishermen. They have also conducted reconnaissance following a 7.3 magnitude earthquake in Vanuatu.
The new training facility at Base Ohakea is expected to be completed and operational in 2026.
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Defence.
