India and U.S. Nearing Agreement for Six Additional P-8I Maritime Patrol Aircraft
Published: July 4, 2025
By: Defence Stories India – Trusted & Verified
Introduction
India is on the verge of signing a major defence agreement with the United States for the purchase of six additional P-8I Poseidon long-range maritime patrol aircraft. The deal, estimated to be worth over $2.1 billion, is expected to significantly boost India’s surveillance and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities in the strategic Indian Ocean Region.
The Indian Navy already operates 12 P-8I aircraft and considers them a core component of its maritime reconnaissance and security framework.
What is the P-8I Poseidon?
- Origin: U.S.-made, based on Boeing 737 airframe
- Purpose: Long-range maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare
- Range: Over 2,200 km without refueling
- Armament: Harpoon anti-ship missiles, torpedoes, depth charges
- Sensors: AESA radar, sonobuoys, magnetic anomaly detectors
The P-8I is specifically customized for India with features like a magnetic anomaly detector (MAD) and an advanced communication suite.
Why Does India Need More P-8I Aircraft?
- Increased Surveillance Needs: Indian Ocean traffic has increased, with growing Chinese submarine presence
- Fleet Aging: Older maritime surveillance aircraft like IL-38 are being phased out
- Two-Front Preparedness: India's expanding maritime interests require constant coastal and deep-sea monitoring
- High Operational Success: Existing P-8I aircraft have proven invaluable in missions like Operation Sankalp and tracking enemy vessels
Strategic Implications
This deal will bring India’s total P-8I fleet to 18 aircraft — one of the largest P-8 fleets outside the United States Navy. These aircraft will be stationed across INS Rajali (Tamil Nadu) and **INS Hansa (Goa)**, covering both the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea.
The timing is also significant. With China expanding its influence in the Indo-Pacific and growing strategic ties with Pakistan, India’s need for accurate and persistent surveillance has become more urgent.
Current Status of the Deal
Defence officials from both countries are in the final stages of negotiations. A formal announcement is expected during the next high-level India-U.S. Strategic Dialogue. The deal may be structured under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme.
Quick Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Model | Boeing P-8I Poseidon |
| Purpose | Maritime Surveillance, ASW, Reconnaissance |
| Number of Units | 6 new + 12 existing = 18 total |
| Deal Value | Approx. $2.1 billion |
| Deployments | INS Rajali, INS Hansa |
Conclusion
The procurement of six more P-8I Poseidon aircraft reflects India’s evolving security priorities and its ambition to maintain a robust maritime domain awareness capability. As India's maritime interests expand and the Indo-Pacific becomes a focal point for global geopolitics, the P-8I continues to serve as a reliable eye in the sky, watching over India’s strategic waters.
Stay connected with Defence Stories India for updates as the agreement is finalized and inducted.
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