About this episode

This episode explores the intricate process of selecting new aircraft for the Royal New Zealand Air Force, featuring insights from Wing Commander Barry “Patch” Nelson.

Guest:  Wing Commander Barry “Patch” Nelson Host:  Dave Homewood Recorded:  ‎29th of ‎December ‎2025 Released: 1st of March 2026 Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes 26 seconds Have you ever wondered what is involved when a new aircraft type is selected for service in the Royal New Zealand Air Force? In this episode of the Wings Over New Zealand Show, Dave Homewood speaks with Wing Commander Barry “Patch” Nelson on this very topic. Patch was in charge if the Royal New Zealand Air Force team who were responsible for the their part in the selection of the NHIndustries NH90 twin-engined medium utility helicopters, to replace the Bell UH-1H Iroquois fleet; and also the selection of the AgustaWestland A109 Light Utility Helicopters that replaced the Bell 47G Sioux fleet. There is an inordinate amount of work involved in selecting a new type, and a massive number of people from all sorts of government departments and community groups all have an input, as Patch explains. This is a fascinating look into the inner workings of a selection team, deep in the heart of Defence Headquarters in Wellington. The NH90 was selected to replace the Iroquois, and the…

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