Boeing installs P-8A Poseidon training center

SEATTLE, Oct. 25 (UPI) -- A Boeing training center for P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft has been installed at the U.S. Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Wash.

The Navy installation is scheduled to begin receiving the aircraft beginning next year.

"About 70 percent of the training we do for our P-8 crews happens in this building," said U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Kyle Cozad. "That is going to make that wonderful aircraft last longer and longer. As much as 45 years."

The center will use a training system that uses simulators and classroom-based materials to train pilots and mission crews to operate the aircraft, its sensors, communications and weapons systems.

"Integrated, ground-based training is critical to U.S. Navy operations," said Tom Shadrach, Boeing P-8 program manager, Training Systems and Government Services. "This new facility will help to effectively and efficiently train aircrews before they ever leave the ground."

Boeing currently provides P-8A aircrew training devices, electronic classrooms and courseware at its Integrated Training Center at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Fla.