Fourth P-8I MPA delivered to Indian Navy

Boeing has delivered the fourth of eight P-8I maritime patrol aircraft to the Indian Navy at Naval Air Station Rajali on 21 May.

The aircraft has joined the first three P-8Is currently undergoing operational evaluation. The aircraft will begin flight trials in the coming months.

The P-8I is the Indian Navy variant of the P-8A Poseidon that Boeing has developed for the US Navy. Boeing is delivering the aircraft to India under a contract signed in 2009.

The P-8I incorporates design features specific to the Indian Navy, as well as India-built subsystems that are tailored to the country’s maritime patrol requirements.

Dennis Swanson, BDS vice president in India, said: ‘This marks an important milestone – the halfway point for P-8I deliveries to The programme’s success the past year is really a testament to the great work between Boeing, the Indian Navy and industry.’

The P-8I features open system architecture, advanced sensor and display technologies, and a worldwide base of suppliers, parts and support equipment. P-8I aircraft are built by a Boeing-led industry team that includes CFM International, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, Spirit AeroSystems, BAE Systems and GE Aviation.