Tri-Service
A New Maritime Patrol Aircraft For The UK?
Five years after Britain scrapped the Nimrod maritime surveillance aircraft, and after calling in NATO planes to scan its own shores after submarine sightings, the issue of whether an island nation needs a plane to patrol its waters remains.
The Japanese are seeking to export their new sub-hunting plane while it's on display at the upcoming Royal International Air Tattoo 2015.
“Soundings from the military and industry are that scrapping Nimrod was a huge mistake. The only issue is how it can be brought back without it looking like a massive U-turn." - IHS Jane's
Two examples of the Kawasaki P-1 four-jet maritime patrol aircraft will feature, one in the static park and the other in the flying programme.
Not only will this be the UK debut of the P-1, but the type's appearance at the airshow is set to mark the first time any Japanese military aircraft has ever taken part in a European flying display. It will also be the public debut on these shores of any Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force asset.
More From Forces TV: Does The UK Need A New Maritime Patrol Aircraft?
Weapon systems of the P-1 include anti-ship missiles, air-to-surface missiles, torpedoes, mines, depth charges as well as bombs.
“The aircraft can also deploy sonobuoys while conducting anti-submarine warfare missions.”
The Kawasaki P-1:
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