The Australian government has entered into a A$291 million ($186 million) contract with Boeing Defence Australia for sustainment and upgrades of the P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.
The contract covers “maintenance, sustainment and capability upgrades” for the Royal Australian Air Force’s P-8As, says Australia’s Department of Defence.
Australia is also in the process of developing a deep maintenance and modification facility for the P-8A next to RAAF Edinburgh, South Australia, where the type serves with No. 11 Sqn.
The RAAF operates 12 P-8As, with two additional examples to be delivered by the end of 2026.
“This investment in the P-8A Poseidon fleet will see them last longer and retain their lethality,” say deputy prime minister and defence minister Richard Marles.
“It will deliver long term economic and strategic benefits while keeping our P‑8A Poseidon fleet at the cutting edge of operational capability.”
