The first of four P-8 Poseidons has touched down in New Zealand – four years after its government secured approval for the acquisition from the United States.

The three remaining aircraft are scheduled to be delivered in 2023.

The P-8 Poseidon is a maritime patrol aircraft used for various roles, including reconnaissance and search and rescue. The Boeing-built aircraft is a military variant initially based on Boeing’s workhorse narrow-body 737 Next Generation.

It’s equipped with advanced sensors and mission systems, including a multi-role radar, high-definition cameras, a high-processing acoustic system, and an extensive communications suite.

New Zealand’s prospective P-8A Poseidon fleet — to be based out of Royal New Zealand Air Force Base Ohakea — is set to replace its existing fleet of six P-3K2 Orions.

“As a maritime nation, delivery of the P-8A will ensure New Zealand maintains a patrol and response capability that will protect and support law enforcement in our Exclusive Economic Zone and Southern Ocean,” Sarah Minson, acting deputy secretary, capability delivery, New Zealand Ministry of Defence, said.

“The P-8A will also assist our South Pacific neighbours and deliver long-range search and rescue capability.”