Brazil's P-3 Orion modernisation programme complete
The last of nine P-3 Orion anti-submarine warfare (ASW) aircraft to be upgraded for the Brazilian Air Force by Airbus Defence and Space (D&S) has been delivered to the customer in Salvador de Bahía, Brazil, where it will be based.
Airbus D&S has modernised the nine aircraft with new systems and avionics. Improvement include the installation of the Fully Integrated Tactical System (FITS) and a new suite of mission sensors, communications systems and cockpit avionics. Aircraft engines and structures were also updated, extending the fleet´s operational life.
Brazil acquired the P-3 Orion aircraft in 2006 from the US Navy, along with three more to be dismantled for spares. The new fleet will give the Brazilian Air Force advanced capabilities, including anti-submarine, maritime patrol, search and rescue, and economic exclusion zone enforcement.
Antonio Rodríguez Barberán, head of commercial for military aircraft, Airbus D&S, said: ‘This has been a large and complex programme and we are very proud of the work done in upgrading the Brazilian P-3 fleet. The FAB now has one of the most modern fleets in its class.’
More from Naval Warfare
-
Taiwan multiplies mine-layer vessel and UAV inventories to deter PLA
Taiwan is strengthening its deterrence against the PLA through an asymmetric arsenal that includes fast mine-laying vessels and domestically developed UAVs.
-
L3Harris expands footprint across Europe via Everest NL and new contracts
L3Harris is targeting European naval modernisation with new uncrewed surface vessels, SATCOM partnerships, and regional investments including defence exercises and facility openings.
-
Interview: DSTA collaborates with Leonardo, Thales and Safran for naval C-UAS
In an exclusive interview with Shephard, DSTA chief Ng Chad-son outlines how the agency is reshaping defence tech development through deeper collaboration with industry partners, from AI-enhanced radar to smart naval munitions.
-
BAE Systems to collaborate with Umoe Mandal on Type 26 frigate and Littoral Strike Craft
The agreement is intended to boost opportunities for both UK and Norwegian naval shipbuilding.
-
How the Force Design 2028 will impact US Coast Guard acquisitions
The FD 2028 strategy intends to reduce the bureaucracy in procurement processes while speeding up the field of assets.