On March 29, Oshkosh Airport Products, LLC, an Oshkosh Corporation Company, announced that the company has secured an extendable contract award with the New Zealand Ministry of Defence. Phase one of the contract will include the production of two Oshkosh Striker 4x4 ARFF vehicles, with aftermarket service provided by Australia/NewZealand-based Oshkosh Corporation subsidiary, JLG Industries, Inc.
Features of the New Zealand Ministry of Defence new Striker 4x4 ARFF vehicles include:
• Oshkosh Command Zone software with diagnostic support
• Deutz TCD2015 16.0L V8 520kW (697HP) engine
• Allison EVS-4800 Series Fully Automatic Transmission
• Waterous CRQB single stage centrifugal water pump
• Water capacity – 1,600 gallons (6,100 liters)
• Foam capacity - 225 gallons (840 liters)
• Dry chemical capacity - 550 Ibs (250 kg)
• Acceleration of 0-50 mph (0-80 km/h) in under 25 seconds
• Oshkosh TAK-4 all-wheel independent suspension
• Eco EFP input-based foam testing system
The New Zealand Ministry of Defence is a civilian agency that provides advice to the government on defense matters, contributing to the nation’s safety and security. The Ministry is also responsible for the purchase of major military/defense equipment for the New Zealand Defence Force. The new Striker 4x4 ARFF vehicles will replace the two oldest ARFF’s at the Royal New Zealand Air Force base Woodbourne in the South Island. Phase two of the project will see the remaining six ARFF’s at the Whenupai and Ohakea air bases replaced with Striker 4x4 ARFF’s commencing in 2023.
“We are honored to be selected by the New Zealand Ministry of Defence to fulfill a contract of such magnitude,” said Jack Bermingham, business unit director for Oshkosh Airport Products. “In partnership with our colleagues at JLG, we look forward to providing the Ministry and the New Zealand Defence Force with a customized fire apparatus that will support their critical safety, efficiency, and service needs for many years to come.”