The first Australian Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft has entered a capability upgrade programme, which will improve its submarine detection and targeting capabilities.
Under the programme, the aircraft will receive the P-8A’s Increment 3 Block 2 modifications, according to Boeing.
The commencement of upgrade work follows Australia’s receipt of its 13th P-8A – a 14th will be delivered in 2026.
The first two RAAF P-8As will be upgraded at Boeing’s maintenance, repair and overhaul facility in Jacksonville, Florida. Subsequent upgrade work will take place at Boeing’s Deeper Maintenance and Modification Facility near RAAF Edinburgh, South Australia.
“These upgrades, together with the delivery of the 13th P-8A, mark two important advancements for Australia’s defence of its vast coastline,” says Naomi Smith, director of sustainment at Boeing Defence Australia.
“Increment 3 Block 2 will deliver next‑generation detection and targeting for aircrews, while the newest aircraft strengthens fleet readiness and operational reach, all while maintaining interoperability with the U.S. Navy P-8A fleet.”
USN P-8As are already undergoing the Increment 3 Block 2 upgrade, with the first aircraft completing the process in February after one year of work.
The USN has described the upgrade as “significant.”
Changes include new airframe racks, radomes, antennas, sensors and wiring that will deliver improved computer processing, a wide-band satellite communication system, an anti-submarine warfare signals-intelligence capability, a submarine track-management system and acoustics systems to enhance search, detection and targeting capabilities.
Following the recent arrival of its 13th P-8A, Australia stood up a second squadron for the type, re-establishing 12 Sqn at RAAF Edinburgh – the RAAF’s original P-8A squadron is 11 Sqn.
