Paul Lewis/WASHINGTON DC
Lockheed Martin is reviving proposals to modernise the P-3C/EP-3 Orion in response to a forthcoming US Navy study contract to explore options for a replacement Multi-mission Maritime Aircraft (MMA).
It plans to submit proposals based around either a new build Orion 21 or remanufacturing P-3C maritime patrol and EP-3 electronic-warfare aircraft. Either option would cost "significantly less" than the $10 billion to develop an all-new aircraft, claims Rob Weiss, P-3 programme manager.
Orion 21 draws on elements of the Orion 2000 contender for the UK's replacement maritime aircraft competition. The Rolls-Royce Allison T56 turboprop would be replaced, with the same company's AE2100 and the Pratt & Whitney Canada PW150 viewed as likely candidates. The cockpit would become two-crew and receive glass displays, similar to the US Coast Guard's P-3 airborne early warning aircraft.
Other areas in need of modernisation include the electrical, hydraulic and environmental control systems. Structural changes would be limited mainly to the nacelle and a strengthened wing. The Anti-Submarine Warfare Improvement Programme mission systems update will be carried over to the MMA.
"Final assembly would be done here at Marietta, but we're looking to sign new vendors and subcontract subassembly," says Weiss. Orion production ceased in 1995.
Remanufacture of the USN's 251 P-3swould include fitting new main wings, empennage and nacelles. Lockheed Martin is undertaking a P-3 service life assessment and the navy is seeking funds in 2002 to add 20,000h life to 60-70 aircraft. This is to "bridge the gap" between the P-3's fatigue limitations and the expected fielding of the MMA in around 2010. Retirements will start in 2002, says Cdr Al Easterling, MMA deputy programme manager.
A recently launched 17-month analysis of alternatives study will consider satellites and unmanned air vehicles as substitutes to manned MMAs.
Source: Flight International
