New planes for new times

Re the new Boeing Poseidon aircraft, yes, the total cost of $2.3 billion is a lot but this includes spares, training and the removal of the facilities from Whenuapai to establishing a new base in Ohakea. The old aircraft are so old they cannot be upgraded any more and the Poseidons appear to be the most suitable for our needs.

New Zealand needs a maritme surveillance capability, as it has had for many years, and the fact these new planes have more offensive capabilities is surely a recognition that we live in changing times.

Let us not forget history has a way of repeating itself, so buy the planes and be prepared.

Mark Emsley, Renwick