Boeing, the US Navy, the Royal Australian Air Force and the United Kingdom Royal Air Force will continue modernising global maritime patrol capabilities through a $2.2-billion contract awarded on March 30 for at least 17 P-8A Poseidon aircraft.

The agreement also includes options for 32 additional aircraft, as well as money for long-lead parts for future orders. After exercising all options, the total contract value will be $6.8 billion. This comprehensive award reflects a commitment by Boeing and the Navy to achieve pricing and production stability, two keys of successful programme performance.

“The P-8A is a textbook example of Boeing’s commercial derivative expertise,” said Jamie Burgess, Vice President of Boeing Military Aircraft’s Mobility, Surveillance and Engagement division and the P-8 programme manager. “Every day our customers get to fly incredible aircraft that perform exceptionally well and are built by the best of Boeing.”