P-8I Aircraft

Category: Defence Technology / Maritime Security

  • P-8I Poseidon is a long-range maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare aircraft operated by the Indian Navy.

  • Manufactured by Boeing.

  • P-8I is India's customised version of the P-8A Poseidon.

  • Based on the Boeing 737-800 platform.

  • Major roles:

    • Anti-submarine warfare

    • Anti-surface warfare

    • Maritime surveillance

    • Intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance

    • Long-range maritime patrol

  • It replaced the Indian Navy's older Tu-142 maritime patrol aircraft.

  • In 2026, India cleared procurement of six additional P-8Is, which would take the fleet to 18 aircraft when inducted.

Prelims fact: P-8I → Indian Navy → maritime reconnaissance + ASW → Boeing 737-800 based.