NPG14_CHINFO_Web_7Mar14

U.S. NAVY PROGRAM GUIDE 2014
December 2007, a result of on-going Fatigue Life Management
Program analysis that revealed the aft lower surface of the outerwing
(Zone 5) experienced fatigue at higher levels than previously
estimated. Subsequently, the Chief of Naval Operations approved
a P-3 Recovery Plan, which included a dual-path approach that
encompassed Zone 5 modifications, which included limited replacement
of outer-wing components, as well as the manufacturing
and installation of new outer-wing assemblies. The Mission
System Sustainment program will improve aircraft availability
through replacement and upgrades of obsolete systems with
modern hardware systems and software. These programs will
ensure the P-3C continues to meet Navy’s ASW, ASUW, and ISR
requirements through completion of the transition to the P-8A in
FY 2019.
Status
The Navy has successfully implemented its P-3C Fatigue Life
Management Program. Through FY 2013, 87 Special Structural
Inspections (SSI), 39 Enhanced Special Structural Inspections
(ESSI), 54 Special Structural Inspection-Kit (SSI-K), and 61 Zone
5 modifications have been completed. Procurement of outer wing
assemblies began in 2008, and installations commenced in 2011.
As of the end of FY 2013, 12 outer wing assemblies have been
completed, with nine aircraft under rework.
Developers
Lockheed Martin
Marietta, Georgia, USA
Eagan, Minnesota, USA
Greenville, South Carolina, USA
Manassas, Virginia, USA
P-8A Poseidon Multi-mission Maritime Aircraft (MMA)
Description
The P-8A Poseidon recapitalizes and improves the broad-area Anti-
Submarine Warfare (ASW), Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW), and
armed Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capability
resident in the legacy P-3C Orion. The P-8A combines the proven
reliability of the commercial 737 airframe, powerplants, and avionics
with an open architecture that enables integration of modern
sensors and communications networks. P-8A will leverage global
logistics support infrastructure and commercial training applications
to provide both higher operational availability and improved
warfighting readiness. The P-8A will be built with incremental upgrades
that include improved ASW sensors, network enabled ASW
and ASUW weapons, sensor and targeting enhancements, and improved
communications capability.
Status
The P-8A program is meeting all cost, schedule, and performance
parameters in accordance with the Acquisition Program Baseline.
The MMA program received a Milestone A decision in March 2000
and explored concepts for MMA with industry. Included in the
concepts was the integration of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)
29