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P-8 Poseidon

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 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.

General Characteristics

  • Primary Function: Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Anti-surface Warfare (ASuW), Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR)
  • Contractor: Boeing Defense, Space and Security
  • Propulsion: 2 CFM 56-7B engines with 27,300 lbs. thrust each
  • Length: 129.5 feet (39.47 meters).
  • Height: 42.1 feet (12.83 meters).
  • Wingspan: 123.6 feet (37.64 meters)
  • Weight: Maximum gross takeoff, 189,200 pounds (85,820 kilograms)
  • Airspeed: 490 knots (564 mph) true air speed
  • Ceiling: 41,000 feet (12,496 meters)
  • Range: 1,200 nautical miles radius with four hours on station
  • Crew: Nine
  • Armament: Torpedoes, cruise missiles

 

U.S. Navy Poseidon P-8
U.S. Navy Poseidon P-8
Poseidon P-8s at the Boeing plant (Boeing Photo)
Poseidon P-8s at the Boeing plant
U.S. Navy Poseidon P-8s on the flight line (Boeing Photo)
U.S. Navy Poseidon P-8s on the flight line
Poseidon P-8 in the landing pattern (Boeing Photo)
Poseidon P-8 in the landing pattern

 

The Basis for the P-8 Poseidon: Boeing 737-800

The Basis for the P-8 Poseidon: Boeing 737-800

 

More Resources About the P-8 Poseidon

P-8 Poseidon at Boeing

P-8 Poseidon at the U.S. Navy