First Indian P-8I MPA arrives in-country
The first P-8I Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) delivered by Boeing for the Indian Navy has arrived in India. The aircraft is the first of eight P-8I MPAs to be delivered by Boeing under a contract signed in 2009.
The Indian Navy will deploy the P-8I MPA fleet in a long-range maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare role as a replacement for its ageing Tupolev Tu-142M maritime surveillance turboprop fleet. The aircraft is a customised export version of the P-8A Poseidon – based on the Boeing next generation 737 - in development for the US Navy.
The P-8I incorporates design features unique to the Indian requirement, and Indian-built subsystems that are tailored to the country’s maritime patrol needs. The aircraft will be armed with the AGM-84L Harpoon Block II missile and the MK 54 lightweight torpedo.
Chris Chadwick, president, Boeing Military Aircraft, said: ‘Boeing is proud to deliver this advanced aircraft to meet the Indian Navy’s unique maritime patrol requirements. The P-8I team, which includes our customer and Indian suppliers, has done a fantastic job working together, and we’re on track to deliver the next two P-8I aircraft later this year.’
More from Naval Warfare
-
South Korea advances next-gen naval concepts for future force needs
HHI and Hanwha Ocean outline highly autonomous and unmanned-enabled designs as the ROKN explores force structure for the 2030s and beyond.
-
US representatives plan to invest $1.6 billion in US Coast Guard inventory in FY2026
The FY26 Homeland Security Bill Markup of the House Committee on Appropriations included resources for the procurement of ships, aircraft and unmanned systems.
-
US Navy seeks industry partners to address pressing research needs
The Office of Naval Research will host an Industry Engagement Day in August aiming at building new partnerships and advancing its science and technology initiatives in multiple areas.
-
Raytheon awarded $1.2 billion in contracts for AN/SPY-6(V) radars for the US Navy
Under the most recent contract, the US Navy will receive four additional AN/SPY-6(V) radars, increasing the number of radars under contract to 42. The radars are considered key for expanding the navy’s capability for air defence.