US to Sell Engines, Support for Argentina’s P-3C Aircraft

The United States has approved the sale of equipment including engines, support and services for Argentina's Lockheed P-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft.

"The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to Argentina of equipment, support and services in support of Argentina’s EDA purchase of four (4) P-3C aircraft and related equipment for an estimated cost of $78.032 million," Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said in a statement Thursday.

In September 2019, Argentina's Minister of Defense, Oscar Aguad announced the procurement of four US Navy P-3C aircraft to replace the country's old P-3B planes, none of which are currently operational.

The Government of Argentina had requested sale of equipment, support and services in support of Argentina’s EDA purchase of four (4) P-3C aircraft, including four (4) turboprop engines on each airframe and an additional four (4) turboprop engines.  The proposed sale will include communications equipment; radar equipment; Infrared /Electro-optic  equipment; aircraft depot maintenance; depopulation and repopulation; supply support/spares and repair of repairables; support equipment; publications; training; aviation life support systems; aircraft transportation; logistical and other technical assistance, and other related elements of logistical and program support.

Argentina’s existing P-3B patrol aircraft have reached the end of their operational service life. To maintain maritime security, Argentina acquired four EDA P-3C aircraft to replace its older aircraft. These EDA aircraft need this refurbishment and equipment to be fully operational.

The prime contractors will be Logistic Services International, Jacksonville, FL; Lockheed Martin Aircraft Center, Greenville, SC; Eagle Systems, Jacksonville, FL; and Rockwell Collins, Cedar Rapids, IA. There are no known offset agreements in connection with this potential sale.