New Delhi, February 12: The Indian maritime region is crucial for global trade, with 70-80% of the world’s trade passing through these waters. To safeguard trade and national security interests, the Indian Navy is continuously enhancing its fleet with new warships and aircraft. In this context, the Ministry of Defense has approved the additional purchase of long-range P-8I aircraft.
During a meeting of the Defense Acquisition Council chaired by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday, the Navy received approval for the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for six additional P-8I aircraft. A statement from the Ministry of Defense noted that this acquisition will significantly enhance the Navy’s long-range anti-submarine warfare capabilities, maritime surveillance, and strike capabilities.
The purchase will be made from the United States. The Indian Navy already operates P-8I aircraft, having acquired a total of 12 from the U.S. so far. In the first phase, eight P-8I aircraft were procured in 2009, followed by four in the second phase in 2016. In November 2019, the Defense Acquisition Council approved the AoN for six additional aircraft. Each AoN has a time limit; if the process is not completed within this timeframe, it may either be extended or resubmitted as a fresh case. In May 2021, the U.S. approved the potential sale of six P-8I aircraft and related equipment.
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the U.S. last year, a joint statement indicated that the procurement of six additional P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft would be completed soon, with agreement on the sale terms already reached.
The P-8I aircraft’s standout feature is its ability to detect and target submarines hidden beneath the ocean’s depths while flying at an altitude of 41,000 feet. It can cover a distance of up to 8,300 kilometers in a single flight. The aircraft is equipped with 11 hardpoints—five internal and six on the wings—allowing it to launch anti-ship missiles, cruise missiles, lightweight torpedoes, anti-submarine warfare charges, and mines. It is also fitted with a powerful multi-mission surface search radar.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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