The government has signed a $139.5 million contract with Boeing Defence Australia to upgrade the Royal Australian Air Force’s fleet of P-8A Poseidon aircraft’s software, systems and sensors, supporting 50 skilled defence industry jobs.

The Poseidon P-8A aircraft is Australia’s maritime patrol aircraft and this work will aim to enhance the aircraft’s anti-submarine warfare, maritime strike, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.​

The first two aircraft to undergo the Increment 3 modification will be upgraded in Jacksonville, Florida, with the remainder of the fleet of 12 to be completed by Boeing Defence Australia at RAAF Base Edinburgh, South Australia. 

“We anticipate the upgrades will involve more than 300,000 hours of maintenance work over four years, with each aircraft taking around 7.5 months to complete,” said Naomi Smith, Boeing Defence Australia director of sustainment operations.

“They will bolster the existing 250+ workforce based at RAAF Edinburgh who currently deliver maintenance services for the P-8A Poseidon fleet.”

New employees will complete formal training with South Australia’s Flight One Academy, along with on-the-job training, during the next two years in preparation for commencement of work on the first aircraft in September 2026.

“This announcement creates 50 new jobs and builds on the existing 283-strong workforce currently employed by Boeing Defence Australia at RAAF Base Edinburgh,” said Pat Conroy, Minister for Defence Industry​.

“Investing in this critical upgrade to our P-8A Poseidon fleet will create new opportunities for apprentices to learn valuable skills and forge a career that offers long-term and well-paid employment, while also ensuring our Defence Force is equipped with the capabilities it needs to keep Australians safe.”

Boeing Defence Australia will recruit and train apprentices and supply chain trainees to provide P-8A Poseidon support, providing upskilling and pathways for Australians to gain long-term employment in a critical industry. 

These upgrades will aim to ensure continued interoperability with Australia’s allies and partners.