The first of nine Poseidon aircraft was tested successfully by Boeing pilots at Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
The nine Poseidon aircraft will be transferred from Boeing Commercial Airplanes to Boeing Defence, Space and Security following the test to be fitted with Poseidon military systems. In October of this year, it will be delivered to the RAF at the Naval Air Station in Jacksonville, Florida and arrive back in the UK in 2020.
The P8-A Poseidon comprehensive mission system features an APY-10 radar with modes for high-resolution mapping, an acoustic sensor system, including passive and multi-static sonobuoys, electro-optical/IR turret and electronic support measures (ESM). It is a multi-role patrol aircraft equipped for surveillance and search and rescue as well as anti-submarine measures.
Senior Responsible owner for the Poseidon Programme Air Commodore Richard Barrow said: “The first cadre of RAF engineers and aircrew have been trained on the P-8A Poseidon which marks the resurgence of the RAF’s long-range maritime patrol capability.”
“The Poseidon MRA Mk 1 will enhance the UK’s maritime patrol capability with advanced, state-of-the-art, Anti-Submarine Warfare and Anti-Surface Warfare sensors. This is an exciting time for the Royal Air Force especially for those based at RAF Lossiemouth”
Poseidon ZP801 will be named Pride of Moray in honour of the area’s military history and its future home at RAF Lossiemouth in Moray. The Poseidon will provide a globally deployable fifth-generation maritime patrol capability, working alongside the Royal Navy.
With the P-8 squadron numbers chosen, the type will operate from RAF Lossiemouth, where infrastructure is being prepared for its arrival around 2020. The aircraft will be equipped with US weapons, although British weapons may be integrated in future.
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