PAUL LEWIS / WASHINGTON DC
The US Navy expects to embark on a $3 billion programme to develop a replacement for its fleet of Lockheed Martin P-3C Orion anti-submarine warfare and EP-3C Aries II programme intelligence gathering platforms next month, with the planned release to industry of a request for proposals (RFP) for a new Multi-mission Maritime Aircraft (MMA).
A draft RFP is being finalised following the recent completion of an analysis of alternatives. The study's conclusions confirm the continued need for a manned land-based aircraft, while acknowledging the potential of unmanned air vehicles as an element of the weapon system, says Cdr Al Easterling, US Navy MMA team leader.
MMA programme goals have evolved from earlier exploratory concept studies, which had envisioned a "smart migration" of P-3 mission systems to a new platform. The RFP now calls for proposals based on a complete weapon system, encompassing airframe and new open architecture systems providing for future growth, including level three remote control of a UAV's sensors.
Naval Air Systems Command plans to initially select three or four prime contractors to undertake an 18-month Component Advanced Development or risk reduction programme, each worth up to $35 million. This will then serve as the entry point into full-scale development by one company starting in 2004. As a result of the broader brief, the navy has widened by 24 months the target date for initial operation capability to 2010-12.
The USN by then expects to be operating many of its 225 P-3C and 11 higher gross weight EP-3s at up to 130% of fatigue life due to their age. The navy envisions acquiring 150 to 200 MMAs depending on the type selected. A major factor will be whether the navy opts for a turbofan-powered solution, offering the advantage of high altitude performance, or a turboprop, which is superior for low altitude missions.
Contenders are expected to include Boeing offering a modified 737-700/800 and Lockheed Martin which has been promoting a modernised and re-engined Orion 21. Other companies to have expressed interest, but which have not selected a platform, are Northrop Grumman and Raytheon. The USN says it considers the Nimrod MRA4 a "serious candidate" and BAE Systems is seeking a US partner. EADS is looking for a similar arrangement to support an Airbus A320-based offering.
Source: Flight International
