Seventh upgraded P-3 delivered by Lockheed

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GREENVILLE, S.C., March 11 (UPI) -- A seventh P-3 Orion patrol aircraft with mid-life upgrades has been delivered by Lockheed Martin to U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

The MLU process included replacing its fatigued, life-limiting structure with enhanced components and incorporation of a new corrosion-resistant metal alloy.

Lockheed said the solution removes current flight restrictions on the plane and extends its operational service life by 20 years.

"This delivery continues to underscore our unique modification, maintenance, repair and overhaul capability to deliver on our commitments," said Ray Burick, Lockheed Martin vice president for Modification, Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul-Greenville Site and Field Team Operations.

The P-3 Orion is used by Customs and Border Patrol for homeland security missions, including border surveillance and counter-narcotics operations. CBP P-3s flew more than 6,500 flight hours last year and were involved in the seizure of more than 117,000 pounds of narcotics.

Lockheed said all seven upgraded P-3s were delivered to CBP on or ahead of schedule.