New Zealand outlines plans to replace P-3Cs and C-130s

Despite ongoing programs to upgrade both fleets, the Royal New Zealand expects to replace its P-3 Orions and C-130 Hercules within the next 15 years. The replacement plans were announced in a defence white paper, the nation's first in 13 years.

Australia adds AP-3C upgrade to Program Watchlist

Australia has added a critical AP-3C Orion upgrade to its program watchlist for troubled defence-related programs. In the crosshairs is BAE Systems’ upgrade work on the aircraft’s electronic support measures subsystem, known also as Air 5726 Phase 8B, which is currently 18 months behind schedule.

PHOTO: Multinational P-3 Orions at RIMPAC 2010

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100706-N-6855K-063 KANEOHE BAY, Hawaii (July 5, 2010) P-3C Orion aircraft from the navies of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Canada, Australia, Republic of Korean and the U.S. line the Rainbow Fleet tarmac of Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay during the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2010 exercise. RIMPAC is a biennial, multinational exercise designed to strengthen regional partnerships and improve interoperability. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Meagan E. Klein/Released)