Mitchell welcomes procurement of 4 P8 Poseidons
National’s Defence Spokesperson Mark Mitchell welcomes the Government’s decision to procure four Boeing P-8 Poseidon
aircraft to advance the capabilities of our Defence Force.
“I welcome today’s announcement of the procurement of four Boeing P-8 Poseidons by the Government, which brings expanded
capability to our Defence Force and retains interoperability with our partners.
“The previous Government had put a lot of work into this, and had the process well advanced, so it’s pleasing to see
this Government has finally made the right decision.
“The P3 Orions have provided our nation with an incredible and reliable service for over fifty years, and they have
earned their retirement.
“The procurement of the P8s sends a positive signal to our allies and partners, showing that we will remain a capable
Defence Force, and are well equipped to play our role on the international stage, alongside providing support to
regional security arrangements.
“Our Defence Force is responsible for the largest search and rescue area in the world, and the P8s will make a major
contribution to search and rescue operations and towards the policing of our wider Exclusive Economic Zone.
“I look forward to the P8 Poseidons being brought into service.”