An Air Force P-3C CUP+ aircraft was recently in Canada carrying out a series of tests, on the ground and in flight, as part of the modernization of mission systems.
The plane, assigned to Squadron 601 – “Lobos”, based in Beja, has been in Canada since October 2023 for a modernization process that involves updating the Identify Friend or Foe, Terrain and Traffic Collision Avoidance System, Link 16 capabilities , in addition to the installation of a new mission system, with the ability to evolve. This is a fundamental step towards maintaining the Air Force’s maritime patrol capacity operational in the national, European Union and NATO context.
According to the Portuguese Air Force, the test flights, which took place between the 18th and 23rd of March, were attended by a crew from Squadron 601 and a soldier from the Engineering and Programs Directorate.
The aircraft will return to Portugal to carry out the last phase of modification work at Air Base No. 11, Beja and carry out final acceptance tests.
To modernize the entire national fleet of P-3C CUP+ in service with the 601 Squadron – “Lobos”, the Air Force established a contract with General Mission Systems Canada, through the Canadian Commercial Corporation, which should run until 2025.
The innate and specific characteristics of this aircraft, which include autonomy, range, speed and the ability to operate in adverse weather conditions, are crucial in helping the Portuguese Air Force to achieve the success of its missions.
Photo: @ForçaAéreaPortuguesa
Tags: P3C CUP aircraft returns Beja Air Base successfully carrying tests Canada
