Honeywell to support Japan's P-1 patrol aircraft

WASHINGTON, Feb. 16 (UPI) -- Kawasaki Heavy Industries has selected Honeywell to provide propulsion, environmental and safety technologies for 20 P-1 maritime patrol aircraft.

The contract, approved by Japan's Ministry of Defense, marks the largest non-Japanese supplier for the P-1 program. Work on the contract will aim to improve the safety and mission effectiveness of the aircraft, while also cutting procurement costs.

"Japan is a key long-term market for Honeywell, and the agreement with KHI is a significant win validating our growth strategy across defense in Japan and the broader Asia-Pacific region," Honeywell Aerospace APAC Defense and Space vice president Mark Burgess said in a statement.

Honeywell will be tasked with equipping the P-1 planes with its 131-9J Auxiliary Power Unit, a gas-powered turbine engine, and its Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System used to warn pilots of potential conflicts will surrounding terrain.

Additional systems to be installed include a cabin pressure control system, exterior and interior lighting, engine starter bleed system valve, ram air turbine and personal oxygen unit.

The Kawasaki P-1 is Japan's first indigenously designed maritime patrol aircraft, replacing the P-3C Orion in the Japanese Self-Defense Force's fleet, providing increased speed and range.