Aircraft
Australia Approves Poseidon Purchase
A U.S. Navy P-8 is seen with a P-3 Orion behind. Australia has also chosen the Poseidon to replace its aging P-3s. (U.S. Navy)
A U.S. Navy P-8 is seen with a P-3 Orion behind. Australia has also chosen the Poseidon to replace its aging P-3s. (U.S. Navy)

Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott announced today that the country’s government has approved the purchase of eight Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. The first aircraft is scheduled to enter service at RAAF Edinburgh in South Australia in 2017, and all eight are due for delivery by 2021. The initial deal is worth AUS$4 billion ($3.59 billion), of which around a quarter will be spent in Australia on aircraft support and base facilities. A further four aircraft are held as options. Australia becomes the second export customer for the Poseidon, following India.

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