RAAF P-8A flies for Operation Gateway
A Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) P-8A Poseidon has completed its first overseas deployment to Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Base Butterworth as part of Operation Gateway, the RAAF announced on 7 June.
The aircraft was deployed as part of work to reach Initial Operating Capability for the aircraft and its systems over the next 12 months.
This deployment to RMAF Butterworth marks the first time an RAAF P-8A Poseidon has operated from an overseas environment since the first aircraft arrived in November 2016.
Operation Gateway is Australia's enduring contribution to the preservation of regional security and stability in South East Asia, providing maritime surveillance in the region. During the deployment, the P-8A carried out patrols in the Northern Indian Ocean and South China Sea.
Each mission used the Poseidon’s advanced sensor suite and data connectivity to conduct routine maritime surveillance on merchant and naval shipping along some of the world’s busiest shipping routes.
The Poseidon’s predecessor, the AP-3C Orion, has operated from RMAF Butterworth for many decades as part of Operation Gateway. Poseidon will take over this surveillance role in 2018.
More from Naval Warfare
-
Italy Navy secures funds for two new FREMMs amid push for a bigger fleet
Italy plans to procure two more FREMM frigates as part of a push to strengthen its naval capabilities amid increased Russian presence in the Mediterranean.
-
Singapore selects Saab and ST Engineering for Multi-Role Combat Vessel
Singapore is proceeding with a new class of warship to replace its Victory-class corvettes.
-
Cairo adds more American ships to its fleet
The Egyptian Navy recently has taken delivery of three former USN Cyclone-class patrol coastal ships.
-
Keel laid for Brazil's MEKO-based Tamandaré frigate
Tamandaré is the first of our ships being acquired under the Brazilian programme, which will be built in blocks.
-
Malta takes delivery of new flagship
At a ceremony in Valetta, Italy's Cantiere Navale Vittoria delivered the new flagship of the Maltese armed forces.