Boeing pitches for more P8I aircraft for Indian Navy

economictimes.indiatimes.com:

Indian Navy, US aerospace manufacturer Boeing has said that the expanded fleet will result in an economic impact of $1.5 billion to the domestic industry in the next decade.

The Indian Navy currently operates a fleet of 12 P8I aircraft that are tasked with carrying out long-range maritime patrols in areas of interest extending from the Gulf of Aden to the Sunda strait in Indonesia. The aircraft, equipped with anti-submarine warfare as well as the capability to attack surface ships, are often used in coordination with friendly navies like the US and Australia.

Top Boeing executives said that talks are on with the Indian Navy to extend the fleet to 18 aircraft, with additional features. “Boeing has already generated a substantial economic impact amounting to $1.7 billion to support the current P8I aircraft fleet in service with the Indian Navy.

We see an expanded fleet bringing in another $1.5 billion,” Dan Gillian, vice president, Boeing Defence said.

The US-based company said that it is looking to create more partnerships in India to add value to its global programs, and several Indian companies are now an active part of its international supply chain. “As we respond to the Indian Navy's need for more P8I aircraft, we're actively looking to enhance engineering, manufacturing, and sustainment capabilities in India, for India, and the world, benefiting both Indian and global customers,” Salil Gupte, president of Boeing India said.

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