Boeing has received a US$1.6 billion contract for low rate initial production (LRIP) of the P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.
To date three P-8 test aircraft have flown, with the remaining three in various stages of final fitout and final assembly. P-8 initial operating capability is planned for 2013, with the US Navy expected to ordered 117 to replace its P-3C Orions.
India has ordered eight similar P-8Is, while Australia expects to order eight P-8As for the RAAF under phase 2B of project Air 7000.
