Brazil's P-3 Orion modernisation programme complete

The last of nine P-3 Orion anti-submarine warfare (ASW) aircraft to be upgraded for the Brazilian Air Force by Airbus Defence and Space (D&S) has been delivered to the customer in Salvador de Bahía, Brazil, where it will be based.

Airbus D&S has modernised the nine aircraft with new systems and avionics. Improvement include the installation of the Fully Integrated Tactical System (FITS) and a new suite of mission sensors, communications systems and cockpit avionics. Aircraft engines and structures were also updated, extending the fleet´s operational life.

Brazil acquired the P-3 Orion aircraft in 2006 from the US Navy, along with three more to be dismantled for spares. The new fleet will give the Brazilian Air Force advanced capabilities, including anti-submarine, maritime patrol, search and rescue, and economic exclusion zone enforcement.

Antonio Rodríguez Barberán, head of commercial for military aircraft, Airbus D&S, said: ‘This has been a large and complex programme and we are very proud of the work done in upgrading the Brazilian P-3 fleet. The FAB now has one of the most modern fleets in its class.’