US 4th Fleet prepares for P-8A Poseidon
A Boeing P-8A Poseidon has arrived at Cooperative Security Location (CSL) Comalapa, El Salvador, in preparation for deployment with the US Navy's 4th Fleet, the navy announced on 29 June.
The P-8A, which replaces the P-3 Orion maritime surveillance aircraft, is expected to begin its deployment in the 4th Fleet area of responsibility in 2017. The aircraft is capable of conducting long range maritime and littoral operations as well as surveillance and reconnaissance operations.
The new aircraft will support Joint Interagency Task Force-South missions out of CSL Comalapa. The P-3C Orion has operated out of the location in support of counter-illicit trafficking and counter-narcotic operations for more than ten years.
US Naval Forces Southern Command and US 4th Fleet supports US Southern Command's joint and combined military operations by employing maritime forces in cooperative maritime security operations in order to maintain access, enhance interoperability, and enhance regional security in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Defence Notes
-
Romanians put pro-Russian candidate into presidential runoff even as the government spends west
Romania joined NATO more than two decades ago and the country is vital to the alliance’s geographic reach and its ability to supply Ukraine with weapons.
-
What the future holds for Ukraine and NATO under a Trump administration
Although Trump’s geopolitics policy for Europe remains unclear, defence analysts from the US and Europe predict how his incoming administration would attempt to handle critical issues on the continent.
-
RUSI deputy: UK needs longer procurement plans and improved awareness of US sift to Indo-Pacific
The UK budget announced in Parliament on 30 October was the first by a Labour government in 14 years which has also launched a review into defence procurement programmes.
-
Australia outlines longer punch and brings local industry onboard
The Australian government has placed a focus on Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) which has included the purchase of additional long-range rocket systems and investments in local production of missiles.
-
UK boosts defence budget by 5.3%, but is this enough?
The UK budget announced in Parliament on 30 October is the first by a Labour government in 14 years. While it sees a boost in defence spending, this comes in the face of fiscal challenges and the effects of inflation.
-
UK makes big moves to fix “broken” defence procurement system ahead of major review
The changes are intended to meet greater need and deliver more value for money.