South Africa to provide modified maritime patrol aircraft to Pakistan Navy
The Pakistan Navy is set to receive
the first Embraer Lineage 1000 aircraft, modified for long-range maritime
patrol, in 2026. The aircraft, part of the Sea Sultan project, is being
converted by Leonardo in collaboration with South Africa's Paramount Aerospace
Systems.
In 2021, Pakistan contracted
Leonardo to modify three Embraer Lineage 1000 jets to replace its aging P-3C
Orion fleet. Paramount is responsible for pre-conversion maintenance, repair,
and overhaul work. The advanced modifications include electronic support
measures (ESM), electronic intelligence (ELINT) sensors, an electro-optical
turret, active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, satellite
communication systems, chaff/flare dispensers, and launchers for torpedoes,
sonobuoys, and depth charges.
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Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of
Naval Staff for the Pakistan Navy, highlighted the significance of the project
in modernizing naval aviation capabilities. “The Lineage 1000 will be a
remarkable addition to our maritime patrol capabilities,” he stated, noting its
advanced technology and enhanced range, endurance, and anti-submarine and
anti-surface warfare capabilities. The aircraft will complement existing
platforms like the P-3C Orion and ATR 72.
The Pakistan Navy plans to replace
its entire P-3C Orion fleet with up to ten converted commercial jets. The first
Lineage 1000, inducted in September 2021 at Pakistan Naval Station Mehran in
Karachi, is currently unmodified and used for crew training.
South African companies play a key
role in the Sea Sultan project. Paramount Aerospace Systems leads the
pre-conversion processes, while Aerosud, a local aerospace engineering firm, is
manufacturing specialized interiors for the aircraft. These include galleys,
observer tables, class dividers, and equipment stowages. Production began in
May 2024 and is expected to be completed by mid-2025, following an 18-month
design phase.
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“This contract underscores Aerosud’s
technical capabilities and strategic collaboration efforts,” the company
stated, emphasizing its growing portfolio in the aerospace sector.
The phased delivery of modified
aircraft reflects the Pakistan Navy’s commitment to enhancing its maritime
surveillance and combat capabilities in the coming years.
Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/