L3Harris Delivers First Overhauled P-8A Poseidon to U.S. Navy

In a major step towards maintaining the operational strength of the U.S. Navy's maritime patrol fleet, L3Harris Technologies has delivered the first fully overhauled P-8A Poseidon aircraft to the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR). This marks a significant milestone in a long-term contract aimed at upgrading and extending the service life of the Navy’s advanced reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare aircraft.

The P-8A Poseidon plays a vital role in the Navy's global maritime operations. Based on the Boeing 737-800 platform, it is equipped with sophisticated radar, sensors, and communication systems. The aircraft is designed for multiple high-end missions, including long-range anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). It also supports search-and-rescue operations and is a key asset in both peacetime and conflict scenarios.

The current overhaul effort by L3Harris is part of a broader sustainment program for the Navy’s 139-aircraft P-8A fleet. The contract includes depot-level maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) work, with the goal of ensuring each aircraft remains fully mission-capable throughout its service life.

L3Harris began work on the project in 2024 at its aircraft modification center in Waco, Texas. The company expects to induct up to nine aircraft for overhaul during the first year alone. Currently, seven aircraft are in various stages of the overhaul process, and all are expected to be delivered back to the Navy within the year. The contract runs through September 2029, allowing for continuous support and upgrades over the next several years.

“This first delivery highlights our commitment to keeping the Navy’s Poseidon fleet ready and operational,” said Jason Lambert, President of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance at L3Harris. “Our experience in aircraft maintenance and modifications ensures that we not only meet performance goals but also extend the aircraft’s longevity in service.”

Beyond supporting the U.S. Navy, L3Harris is also set to assist with international versions of the P-8A Poseidon under foreign military sales agreements. Countries like Australia, the UK, India, Norway, and Germany operate variants of the P-8A, relying on its proven capabilities for maritime defense and strategic surveillance.

This delivery is more than just routine maintenance—it’s a critical component of U.S. naval power projection and global readiness. By ensuring these high-value aircraft remain in peak condition, L3Harris is helping the Navy stay ahead in an increasingly complex maritime environment.