Indian Navy completes its P-8I fleet
The Indian Navy has received its twelfth and final contracted P-8I aircraft from Boeing. (IN)
The Indian Navy is stepping up training on the P-8I maritime patrol aircraft following the arrival of the latest aircraft from Boeing.
The Indian Navy (IN) received its fourth P-8I maritime patrol aircraft under an option clause on 23 February, taking the total fleet to 12 aircraft under a deal valued at $3.2 billion.
In May 2021, US congressional approval was given for an additional six P-8Is, though a deal is yet to be signed. ‘Discussions are ongoing,’ said an Indian government source.
Former commodore Sujeet Samaddar, who retired as the IN’s Principal Director Naval Plans, said, ‘The P-8I is a useful asset for the military that can be used for a variety of applications across the spectrum, to include civil use to military
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