Boeing continues Poseidon LRP

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SEATTLE, Sept. 25 (UPI) -- A contract for the third phase of initial low-rate production of P-8A Poseidon aircraft has been given to Boeing by the U.S. Navy.

Eleven Poseidons will be produced under the award, which is worth $1.9 billion.

"This contract is a stepping stone to full-rate production and our focus remains on building Poseidon on cost and on schedule," said Chuck Dabundo, Boeing vice president and P-8 program manager.

The P-8A is based on Boeings Next-Generation 737-800 commercial aircraft and used for anti-submarine, anti-surface warfare and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. It is assembled at the same plant as the 737-800 and is assembled in-line, with all unique modifications made in sequence during the production process.

Boeing has produced 13 Poseidons under earlier initial low-rate production orders. The Navy plans for a fleet of more than100 of the aircraft.