The 14th Air Force P-8A Poseidon gets a water arch salute from the aviation firefighters on arrival at RAAF Base Edinburgh, marking the fleet complete | Photo: FSGT Rob Hack/RAAF/Defence Australia
The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has received its 14th and final Boeing P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, completing the country’s planned fleet of the aircraft used for anti-submarine warfare, maritime strike, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
The aircraft will be operated by Number 11, 12 and 292 Squadrons from RAAF Base Edinburgh in South Australia.
Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Stephen Chappell DSC, CSC, OAM, Chief of Air Force, said the completed fleet supports Australia’s defence plans and maritime surveillance capabilities.
“The P-8A Poseidon fleet is a critical capability that underpins our ability to maintain awareness of our maritime domain, and enhances Australia’s capacity to detect, deter and respond to threats across its maritime approaches,” Air Marshal Chappell said.
“By integrating advanced sensors, communications, and strike capabilities, the P-8A Poseidon plays a vital role in supporting Australia’s deterrence-by-denial strategy. As outlined in the 2026 National Defence Strategy, this is achieved by delivering persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance across Australia’s primary area of military interest,” he added.
The P-8A program also includes support and maintenance work involving Boeing Defence Australia and Australian industry partners, including activity at the Deep Maintenance and Modification Facility at RAAF Base Edinburgh. Planned future upgrades are expected for the fleet.
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