Israeli Navy Eyes Purchase of Boeing P-8 Poseidon Aircraft

The Israeli Navy is considering the purchase of Boeing P-8 Poseidon aircraft for anti-submarine operations and expanding covert maritime operations. According to a report by The Jerusalem Post, citing Walla and a source in Israel's Ministry of Defense, Navy Commander Maj. Gen. Eyal Harel met with a senior Boeing official several weeks ago to discuss the company's latest developments and modern weapons systems.

The preliminary assessment indicates that Harel intends to include the need to procure P-8 aircraft in the Navy's strategic plan for the next decade, which is expected to be submitted to the General Staff at the end of the year. The P-8 Poseidon, based on the Boeing 737, is designed to detect and combat submarines with acoustic sensors, intelligence-gathering radar, artificial intelligence systems, and can carry torpedoes.

The aircraft's capabilities also include employing missiles against surface ships and ground targets, conducting search-and-rescue missions, and operating in a networked combat environment. It can reach speeds of up to 850 km/h and remain airborne for long periods, including thanks to refueling.