The Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) new maritime surveillance aircraft P-8A Poseidon has attained initial operating capability (IOC), five months before schedule.
The IOC is a significant milestone for the P-8A aircraft, which serves as a major element of the Australian Defence Forces’ (ADF) future maritime strategy, RAAF chief air marshal Leo Davies said in a statement.
Davies also stated that the arrival of the P-8A Poseidon in Australia has enabled the nation’s airforce, under Plan Jericho, to develop and create new operating concepts, support arrangements and sustainment options.
Davies added: “These will best exploit the P-8A’s sensors and networking as part of integrated navy and airforce integrated maritime intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance family of systems.”
The military aircraft, along with the MQ-4C Triton, has been procured by Australia as part of its $5bn investment in improving the country’s maritime patrol capability.
The P-8A Poseidon aircraft will replace the AP-3C Orion aircraft currently in use with the Australian Air Force.
The AP-3C Orion aircraft is expected to retire from its operations after approximately 40 years of service with the RAAF.
How well do you really know your competitors?
Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.
Thank you!
Your download email will arrive shortly
Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample
We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form
By GlobalDataAustralian Defence Minister Marise Payne said: “Together the P-8A Poseidon and the future MQ-4C Triton aircraft will provide Australia with one of the world’s most advanced maritime patrol and surveillance capabilities.”
Payne added: “The Poseidon will improve defence’s ability to conduct anti-submarine warfare, maritime patrol and surveillance of Australia’s maritime approaches.”
Six of the 12 P-8A Poseidon aircraft are currently being operated by Number 11 Squadron from RAAF Base Edinburgh in South Australia.