Proper P-8 lands at Pax
The Navy's first P-8A Poseidon production representative operational test aircraft takes off from Boeing's facility in Seattle, Wash., June 24. It will join three other developmental test aircraft, which are already at NAS Patuxent River. (Photo courtesy of The Boeing Company)
By PMA-290 Public Affairs
The Navy received its first P-8A Poseidon production representative operational test aircraft June 24.
The new P-8A arrived at NAS Patuxent River and it will join three developmental test aircraft already undergoing integrated testing in preparation for initial operational test and evaluation of the P-8A Poseidon.
The Navy entered into Low Rate Initial Production of the first six Poseidon aircraft in January 2011. These aircraft will be used to form the first operational P-8A squadron, which is scheduled for initial operational capability in 2013. The airplane will eventually replace the Navy’s fleet of aging P-3 Orion submarine-hunting aircraft.
The Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Program Office (PMA-290) receives the Navy's first P-8A Poseidon production representative operational test aircraft June 24. Crew members stand with the new aircraft after landing at NAS Patuxent River. (U.S. Navy photo)
