Embraer Maritime Patrol Aircraft to enhance capacity of Pakistan Navy
The Pakistan Navy is set to receive its first Embraer Lineage 1000 aircraft, modified for the maritime patrol role by Leonardo and Paramount Aerospace Systems, in 2026. This milestone is part of the Navy’s long-term Sea Sultan project aimed at modernizing its fleet and replacing aging P-3C Orion aircraft.
Project Overview
In 2021, Pakistan contracted Leonardo to convert three Embraer Lineage 1000
aircraft into long-range maritime patrol aircraft (MPA). The Embraer Lineage
1000E, a variant of the Embraer 190 regional airliner, was selected as the base
platform due to its advanced capabilities, including:
- Range: 8,500 km
- Maximum Speed: Mach 0.82
- Service Ceiling: 41,000 ft
- Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 120,000 lbs
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Paramount Aerospace Systems was tasked with pre-conversion maintenance,
repair, and overhaul (MRO) of the aircraft, while its subsidiary, Aerosud, is
providing special mission interiors such as galleys, observer tables, and
equipment stowages.
Mission Capabilities
Though specific details of the mission payload and sensor systems remain
undisclosed, the converted aircraft are expected to feature:
- Electronic
Support Measures/Electronic Intelligence (ESM/ELINT) sensors
- Electro-optical
turret
- Active
Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar
- Satellite
communications
- Chaff/flare
dispensers
- Launchers
for torpedoes, sonobuoys, and depth charges
These modifications aim to enhance the aircraft’s capabilities in
anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface vessel warfare.
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Modernization Timeline
The first unmodified Embraer Lineage aircraft was delivered to the Pakistan
Navy in 2021 for crew training. Speaking on the project, Chief of Naval Staff
Admiral Naveed Ashraf stated:
“The aircraft is presently being modified in South Africa and is expected to
be delivered in 2026, with subsequent deliveries planned over the coming years.
With its state-of-the-art technology, the Sea Sultan will complement
our existing platforms, offering superior range, endurance, and operational
capabilities in both ASW and surface warfare.”
The Navy ultimately plans to replace its fleet of seven P-3C Orion aircraft
with up to ten converted Embraer jets as part of a phased modernization effort.
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Strategic Significance
The Embraer Lineage 1000E offers Pakistan’s naval aviation improved range
and endurance, making it a formidable addition to its fleet. By incorporating
cutting-edge technology and advanced mission systems, the Sea Sultan
project represents a significant leap in maritime patrol and defense
capabilities for the Pakistan Navy.
Source: https://www.asianmilitaryreview.com/