The Australian defense forces welcomed their newest P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft, as the plane arrived at its new home, RAAF Base Edinburgh, on December 12.
“This is the twelfth Poseidon to join the fleet, since the first arrived in Canberra on November 16, 2016,” Australian defense minister Linda Reynolds said.
P-8A Poseidon incorporates maritime surveillance and attack capabilities, providing Australia with enhanced flexibility to support multiple operations.
“The aircraft can be refuelled while flying by tanker aircraft such as Australia’s KC-30A, making it possible to patrol Australia’s isolated Southern Ocean territories.
“The P-8A is already providing significant operational support to Australia, including a recent mission to the Middle East region on operation Manitou as part of the International Maritime Security Construct.”
Defense industry minister Melissa Price said the government was investing A$470 million to deliver new and upgraded facilities and airfield works at RAAF Base Edinburgh to support the introduction of the P-8A aircraft.
The P-8A Poseidon and the MQ-4C Triton unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), are replacing the AP-3C Orion aircraft.
