The German Army -- biggest customer for the NH-90 helicopters New Zealand is buying for its own military -- has pointed to many shortcomings and even recommended using alternative aircraft in operational scenarios.
New Zealand in 2006 ordered eight NH-90s for $771 million, including logistics support, spare parts and training, and expected to start introducing them in a few months time to replace the Vietnam War-era Bell UH-1Hs.
The RNZAF has already started retiring its 14 ageing Iroquois helicopters, affectionately known as "Hueys", which arrived in New Zealand in 1966 and 1970 and have been deployed around many Pacific countries, Antarctica and other parts of the world.
But a leaked 103-page internal German military report revealed several deficiencies in the NH-90, including a rear ramp unable to hold fully equipped personnel, a weak floor that could be cracked by heavy boots and a lack of clearance that could stop troops from easily getting in and out.
The lack of space also meant there was no room for a door-mounted defensive machine gun, which could make troops disembarking in a combat situation sitting targets.
Germany was the first nation to receive a similar NH-90 variant to that on order for New Zealand, and was also the first to introduce the type into service.
Dr Mapp told The New Zealand Herald last night he had every confidence the NH-90s would perform all the required military functions well.
"They will be a cornerstone of the defence force's capability in the future," he said.
"Like the navy's new patrol vessels, they will be used to support the work of many other agencies, such as the police and customs."
Defence deputy secretary of acquisitions Des Ashton said last night the ministry was aware of the report, and many of the problems raised would be talked through with the European manufacturers, or other armed forces as the delivery date neared.
Australia is also buying 46 of the helicopters to replace army Black Hawk and Iroquois helicopters and Navy Sea Kings through a deal worth $A3.3 billion ($NZ4.15 billion), though in Australian service, the NH-90 will be known as the MRH-90 (for multi-role helicopter).
