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
-
![Khabarovsk submarine launch reflects Russia’s nuclear modernisation progress]()
Khabarovsk submarine launch reflects Russia’s nuclear modernisation progress
The nuclear-powered vessel, which could carry the Poseidon autonomous torpedo – dubbed the “doomsday missile” – marks another step forward in Russia’s maritime defence push.
-
![US Coast Guard seeks national and foreign suppliers for light and medium icebreakers]()
US Coast Guard seeks national and foreign suppliers for light and medium icebreakers
Contracts for new light and medium cutters are expected to be awarded in mid-2026.
-
![Anduril Australia shows first Ghost Shark for RAN at factory opening]()
Anduril Australia shows first Ghost Shark for RAN at factory opening
The new underwater vehicle has been described as an “important deterrent” thanks to its ability to operate undetected for extended periods of time.
-
![First Canadian Coast Guard Polar Icebreaker is “on track” for keel laying in late 2026]()
First Canadian Coast Guard Polar Icebreaker is “on track” for keel laying in late 2026
Canadian Coast Guard Ship Arpatuuq construction is in the block manufacturing phase. Once built, it will be the largest vessel in the Coast Guard’s inventory.
-
![US Navy extends the deadline for submitting proposals for the Next Generation Logistics Ship]()
US Navy extends the deadline for submitting proposals for the Next Generation Logistics Ship
NAVSEA plans to select up to three suppliers for the concept design phase of the programme in Q2 FY2026.
-
![Advances in USV technology help develop tomorrow’s hybrid fleet]()
Advances in USV technology help develop tomorrow’s hybrid fleet
As services like the Royal Navy and US Navy aim to develop hybrid fleets to reduce reliance on and dangers to crewed vessels, L3Harris, Metal Shark and Red Cat step forward.
