Boeing has started upgrading the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft under the Increment 3 Block 2 modernization program. The first aircraft has arrived at Boeing’s Jacksonville, Florida facility for the comprehensive enhancement work.
The upgrade aims to significantly improve the P-8A’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, strengthening its performance in anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare missions. The modernization package introduces advanced antennas, next-generation sensors, and updated software to enhance computing power and communications efficiency.
Australia is the first international operator of the P-8A Poseidon to receive these Increment 3 upgrades, marking a milestone in global maritime defense collaboration. Boeing was awarded a 139.5 million Australian dollar ($90.5 million) contract in 2024 to implement the upgrades. The first two aircraft are being modified in Jacksonville, while subsequent aircraft will be upgraded by Boeing Defence Australia (BDA) at its Deeper Maintenance & Modification Facility in South Australia.
To support the effort, over 30 maintenance engineer apprentices and trainees have joined BDA, with another 30 positions expected to open as the program expands. The initiative not only enhances Australia’s maritime patrol strength but also boosts local aerospace job creation and skill development.
