Life goes on after UK MPA decision
The announcement on 23 November that the UK will be purchasing nine P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) dealt a terminal blow to any thought that a requirement would be followed by an open competition.
It is believed that following discussions with the US government, a contract award can be expected in spring 2016, with first P-8 deliveries to happen before the end of 2017; possibly in line with the launch of the Royal Navy’s new Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier.
At a briefing with Lockheed Martin on 24 November, officials expressed their disappointment that an open competition is not
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Navy seeks suppliers for Landing Craft Utility 1700-class]()
US Navy seeks suppliers for Landing Craft Utility 1700-class
With ongoing market research to find potential shipyards for building LCUs, NAVSEA intends to issue a request for proposals for the programme next year.
-
![Australia’s A$12 billion Perth shipyard upgrade offers positive sign for AUKUS]()
Australia’s A$12 billion Perth shipyard upgrade offers positive sign for AUKUS
While the Australian government insists the investment is predominantly aimed at strengthening the country’s defence capabilities, the upgrade also bodes well for the AUKUS pact which Australia’s defence minister said “is going well”.
-
![DSEI 2025: Red Cat expands into USV production with focus on combat-proven technology]()
DSEI 2025: Red Cat expands into USV production with focus on combat-proven technology
At DSEI 2025, Red Cat outlines its expansion from UAVs into uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), positioning itself as a multi-domain defence provider spanning land, sea, and air.
-
![Anduril Australia wins A$1.7 billion Ghost Shark XL-AUV contract]()
Anduril Australia wins A$1.7 billion Ghost Shark XL-AUV contract
The vessels are expected to deliver a major boost to Australia’s undersea warfare capabilities, with production set to start immediately.
