The P-8A Poseidon (P-8A) is the U.S. Navy's multi-mission maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft. It is designed to conduct anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and humanitarian response. These capabilities are enhanced through secure, interoperable, net-ready systems. While the aircraft is also equipped with high-quality weapon systems, it also has an open architecture to allow for expansion.
The Poseidon incorporates the Boeing 737-800ERX airframe, -900 wings, a weapons bay and pylons. it will ultimately replace the P-3 Orion.
Boeing P-8 Poseidon in flight (Boeing Photo) |
It is armed with torpedoes, Harpoon anti-ship missiles and other weapons, and is able to drop and monitor sonobuoys, as well as operate in conjunction with other assets.
As of May of 2020, 122 Poseidons have been built by Boeing. It is in active service with the U.S. Navy and other Alllied countries.
U.S. Navy Poseidon P-8 |
Poseidon P-8s at the Boeing plant (Boeing Photo) |
U.S. Navy Poseidon P-8s on the flight line (Boeing Photo) |
Poseidon P-8 in the landing pattern (Boeing Photo) |