RNZAF 75th Anniversary A-1B+ Kārearea (Falcon), 2012 COMPLETED

[PR19_Kit]

That's looking VERY good, and very 'Kiwi' too. 

[NARSES2]

It is looking nice 

[AeroplaneDriver]

OK, she's done. 

Following the 2001 cancellation of the RNZAF's order for 28 F-16s to replace the aging fleet of A-4 Skyhawks, interest grew in alternative options allow the RNZAF to maintain a tactical air combat capability.  Eager to expand sales of the AMX series of aircraft and promote interest in upgrades to the existing fleet Embraer approached New Zealand about the lease of AMX light fighters.  While the offer was attractive there was still opposition in the government to reintroducing fighter aircraft.   To circumvent this opposition the two seat A-1B version of the AMX was heavily promoted as a tactical trainer replacement for the MB-339 fleet with 'secondary combat capabilities'.

The marketing tactic worked and in late 2003 the RNZAF ordered 30 two seat AMX A-1B aircraft.  The first example was delivered in June 2006 to RNZAF Base Ohakea.  In New Zealand service the type was given the nickname Kārearea after New Zealand's only native falcon species. 

The type's potential as a multi-role tactical platform was explored very early in its career with the RNZAF and by 2009 an upgrade was underway to fit the AN/APG-66 radars salvaged from the retired A-4 Kahu fleet.  The first A-1B+ entered service with 75 Sqn in 2012 and received full color markings as part of the RNZAF 75th Anniversary.   

In RNZAF service the A-1B+ carries the AIM-9M Sidewinder (AIM-9X introduced in 2017), AGM-65 Maverick, GBU-12, JDAM, Hydra70, and Penguin MkIII.  In 2018 an upgrade to allow carriage of the MBDA Brimstone missile was also under consideration. 

RNZAF Kāreareas have made two combat deployments.  First in 2009 in support of the NATO mission in Afghanistan, and again in late 2014 to UAE to support coalition forces fighting ISIS in Iraq.  In each case six aircraft deployed and operated closely with RAAF forces. 

[PR19_Kit]

Very splendid indeed. 

[DogfighterZen]

Very nice work indeed, looks great in that camo.

[strobez]

wow. I love how that came out.  I think it was the right choice of colour - it really pops!

[comrade harps]

Splendid! 

[NARSES2]

Very nice work indeed, looks great in that camo.

It does indeed 

[AXU]

Bravo....just bravo !!!! 

[zenrat]

Love those greens.

[ChernayaAkula]

Just wonderful!