YOKOSUKA, Japan (NNS) — The Pelicans of Patrol Squadron (VP) 45 hosted members of the Philippine air force and navy aboard a U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon for a familiarization flight to increase understanding and showcase the capabilities of the Navy’s newest maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft during a detachment to Clark Air Base, Republic of the Philippines, Feb. 17.
The flight was a bilateral patrol mission in airspace off of Luzon Island and allowed the U.S. Navy air crew to demonstrate the P-8A’s capabilities in both the littoral and open ocean environment and the flight characteristics of the P-8A in both high altitude reconnaissance missions and low altitude patrol regimes. The air crew also explained the operation of the aircraft’s multi-mission sensors.
“It was a remarkable opportunity to work alongside the members of the Filipino Armed Forces,” said U.S. Navy Lt. Matthew Pool, Combat Air Crew 4 patrol plane commander. “Sharing this aircraft’s capabilities with our allies only strengthens our bonds.”
During the three-week detachment, Feb. 1 to Feb. 21, VP-45 executed more than 180 flight hours in support of U.S. 7th Fleet objectives to strengthen maritime partnerships in the Indo-Asia-Pacific.
The P-8A is the most advanced long range anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare aircraft in the world. A true multi-mission aircraft, it also provides superior maritime intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capability. Built on the proven Boeing 737 airframe, the transition to P-8A brings with it enhanced safety and reduced maintenance. The P-8 is significantly quieter than the P-3, requires less maintenance, and provides more on-station time.
The new P-8A is part of the Navy’s commitment to the Pacific rebalance, bringing latest technology to U.S. 7th Fleet to ensure the U.S. is best postured to honor its commitment to regional security and stability.
“Why Being There Matters”
On our planet, more than 70 percent of which is covered by water, being there means having the ability to act from the sea. The Navy is uniquely positioned to be there; the world’s oceans give the Navy the power to protect America’s interests anywhere, and at any time. Your Navy protects and defends America on the world’s oceans. Navy ships, submarines, aircraft and, most importantly, tens of thousands of America’s finest young men and women are deployed around the world doing just that. They are there now. They will be there when we are sleeping tonight. They will be there every Saturday, Sunday and holiday this year. They are there around the clock, far from our shores, defending America at all times.
