The Government of India has selected Boeing to provide eight P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare aircraft to the Indian navy.
India is the first international customer for the P-81, a variant of the P-8A Poseidon being developed for the US Navy.
The P-8I is a multi-mission maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) that can operate effectively over land or water while performing anti-submarine warfare missions; search and rescue; maritime interdiction; and long-range intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance.
President and CEO of Boeing Integrated Defense Systems, Jim Albaugh said that he was pleased with India’s decision to select the P-81.
“This aircraft will provide outstanding capabilities tailored to India’s unique maritime-patrol requirements,” Albaugh said.
Boeing IDS vice president and India country head, Vivek Lall said that the deal would give India the most advanced anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare aircraft in the world today.
“The result of these efforts will bring the Indian Navy advanced technology that is unmatched in maritime reconnaissance aircraft and the reach and capability it needs to defend India’s vast coastline and maritime waters,” Lall said.
The P-8I features open system architecture, advanced sensor and display technologies, and a worldwide base of suppliers, parts and support equipment.
By Daniel Garrun.
