Aircraft

Boeing has rolled out the first P-8A Poseidon anti-submarine warfare aircraft from the paint hangar at its Renton, Washington plant wearing the US Navy colour scheme.

The aircraft (T-2) is the third of five test aircraft Boeing is assembling and testing as part of its System Development and Demonstration contract. Developed from the 737-800 airliner, the first test P-8A (T-1) completed the programme's maiden flight on 25 April, It will be painted in the same grey scheme this summer.

© Boeing

The USN plans to purchase 108 P-8A aircraft to replace its fleet of P-3Cs. Initial operational capability is planned for 2013.