New Zealand has given further details of a new fleet tanker that it is acquiring from South Korea besides replenishment of naval vessels, the platform can also be deployed on HADR missions

The Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) has given further specifications of a new fleet tanker that it is acquiring from South Korean shipbuilder Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI).

The New Zealand government announced in July 2016 that it has approved the vessel's acquisition for NZD493 million (USD353 million). The platform will replace the RNZN's only replenishment tanker, HMNZS Endeavour (A 11), which has been in service since April 1988.

The new tanker will displace 24,000 tonnes, and has a length of 166 m, an overall beam of 24.5 m, and a design draught of 8.5 m. The ship will feature an 'axe bow' design for fuel efficiency, and has a top speed of 16 kt. It will be equipped with two NATO-compliant replenishment at sea (RAS) masts, one each on the port and starboard sides.

The platform will have liquid cargo capacity for 8,000 tonnes of diesel fuel, 1,550 tonnes of aviation fuel, and 250 tonnes of fresh water. The ship can also carry up to 12 standard 20 ft containers, four of which can contain dangerous goods such as ammunition, and will be equipped with a winterised crane that can lift up to 25 tonnes.

With a hangar and flight deck, the vessel can accommodate and sustain one NH90 helicopter, and features accommodation for 98 including 64 core crew members of the ship. The tanker will carry two rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIBs) for visit, board, and seizure missions.

For self-defence, the vessel has been designed to be armed with two mini-Typhoon remote-controlled weapon stations (one each on the port and starboard sides) and one Phalanx close-in weapon system (CIWS) turret on its bow.

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