Boeing Alters P-8A MMA Wing Design
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Boeing researchers have changed the wing design of the P-8A Multi-mission Maritime Aircraft, which is designed to replace the P-3C as the U.S. Navy’s primary patrol aircraft.
The wing extension is being altered from a blended winglet to a raked or backswept wingtip. They are heavier and create drag, but provide for easier insertion of de-icing components.
Since naval patrol aircraft often have to spend hours in clouds and bad weather at around 15,000 ft. rather than flying over the clouds like commercial aircraft, this modification to the base 737-800 airframe would appear to increase overall performance for long maritime patrol missions.
Since the P-8A program is only a year old, the change is reportedly being made early enough so the P-8A’s weight, cost and schedule should not be affected. DID has previously done an in-depth article on the P-8A MMA program and its prospects in the international market.
- Aviation Week & Space Technology: Boeing Alters Wing Design for P-8A MMA
