On November 4, Boeing awarded Boeing a $119.7 million contract modification to advance the modernization of nine P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, according to [zona-militar.com].
Seven of the jets belong to the U.S. Navy, while two are operated by the Royal Australian Air Force, as reported by [hispaviacion.es]. The agreement, as part of a list of agreements reached by the U.S. Department of War, also contemplates the provision of Type A update kits belonging to Block 2 of Increment 3 and the installation of four kits already acquired on US Navy aircraft.
The agreement relies on a fixed-fee incentive structure to supply Block 2 Increment 3 Type A modification kits. [zona-militar.com] said that Washington will contribute $110.1 million from its fiscal year 2027 aircraft procurement funds. Meanwhile, Canberra covers the remaining balance through established bilateral cooperation mechanisms, bringing Australia’s share to $9.5 million according to [hispaviacion.es].
Boeing improves P-8A fleet ISR&T capabilities
The Increment 3 Block 2 package represents the most advanced upgrade designed for the P-8A fleet. “It improves the Maritime Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Targeting (ISR&T) capabilities of Naval Aviation, the eyes of the Fleet,” said Michael Wosje, as reported by [zona-militar.com].
Naval Air Systems Command in Patuxent River, Maryland, oversees the contracting activity. Boeing will perform the modification work across three U.S. facilities: Jacksonville, Florida handles 79.6% of the tasks, St. Louis, Missouri takes 10.9%, and Mesa, Arizona accounts for 9.5%.
Boeing completes technical work by May 2030
The contract requires Boeing to complete all technical work by May 2030. The update introduces a new radomo, updated antennas, improved sensors, and a modified wiring harness.
Technical work will also be developed in a coordinated manner in Oklahoma City, San Antonio, and the Hamamatsu air base in Japanese territory, extending its validity until mid-November 2027 under the supervision of the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center in Massachusetts, through the Foreign Military Sales program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which facilities are performing the upgrade work?
Boeing is completing the modifications primarily in Jacksonville, Florida, along with sites in St. Louis, Missouri, and Mesa, Arizona, with technical work also developed in Oklahoma City, San Antonio, and the Hamamatsu air base.
What is the total value of the contract?
The contract modification is valued at $119.7 million, with the U.S. funding $110.1 million and Australia providing the remainder.
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