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Boeing Defence Australia and Airbus Australia Pacific have announced a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that extends their commitment to the sustainment of the Royal Australian Air Force’s P-8A Poseidon program.
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The two companies are currently teaming up to deliver the interim sustainment support contract (ISSC) for the fleet’s transition into service, with the new MoU positioning "the partnership to provide the P-8A through life support (TLS) contract."
“The MOU signals our preparedness to deliver the future of the P-8A sustainment in Australia,” said Scott Carpendale, director of Boeing’s commercial derivative aircraft division.
“Having sustained the RAAF fleet since 2015, the combined Boeing and Airbus Australia Pacific teams bring proven capability to provide ongoing support and training and assist the customer to scope and address future requirements.
“With the ISSC due to expire in October 2020, now was the time to assure the Commonwealth of our commitment to providing continuity of service.”
A derivative of the 737-800 Next Generation, the P-8 combines superior performance and reliability with an advanced mission system that ensures maximum interoperability in the future battlespace.
Australia has committed to purchasing 12 P-8A Poseidon aircraft, which will replace the ageing fleet of P-3C Orion aircraft.
Australia's first aircraft arrived in Canberra on 16 November 2016, with the remaining 11 aircraft to be delivered by March 2020. IOC for the first eight P-8As is scheduled for the period 2017-2020.
