U.S. State Dept. approves P-8A aircraft sale to Norway

WASHINGTON, Dec. 22 (UPI) -- The U.S. State Department has approved the proposed sale of P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft to the government of Norway.

The pending sale includes five of the planes in addition to commercial engines, Tactical Open Mission Software, AN/APY-10 radars, missile warning sensors, and additional equipment. If approved by Congress, the deal is estimated to cost $1.75 billion.

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency says the sale bolsters national security interests abroad by improving a NATO ally's security capabilities and promoting political stability throughout the world.

Norway intends to use the P-8As to replace its legacy fleet of P-3C Orion C planes. The country has operated the plane for over 40 years. The DSCA maintains Norway will have no difficulty absorbing the new planes into their armed forces.

The Boeing-made P-8A Poseidon is designed for long-range patrol missions including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations. The aircraft is also used by pilots in India and Australia.