'Spares shortages' disable Navy helicopters

The Navy's Seasprite helicopters are being under-utilised because of 'spares shortages', says National's Defence spokesman, Dr Wayne Mapp.

"These $326 million excl GST aircraft which have been in service for six years were touted by then Defence Minister Mark Burton, as being 'a significant addition to our defence capability'.

"But in answers to parliamentary written questions, Defence Minister Phil Goff has admitted that only four of the five Seasprite are being flown regularly.

"One has been inoperable – having clocked up zero flying hours - for more than two years because there are problems in obtaining spare parts to repair it following a hard landing.

"The Government must explain why repairs are taking so long.

"There have been continuing problems with defence procurement under the Labour Government, including the $200 million blowout in the NH90 helicopter contract, and $700 million spent on LAVIII vehicles for the army – which spend most of their time sitting in garages.

"The Navy said in May 2006, after the Australian Navy encountered problems with its Seasprites, that all five aircraft were operating 'as normal'.

"I can only assume that is the Labour Government's definition of normal."

Click to download answers to Parliamentary Questions (Word document)