The P-3 Orion can carry weapons in brackets in the wings or in the center basement (FAB)
The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) started on Saturday (19) the first launch exercise pumps from the maritime patrol aircraft P-3AM, currently the largest in the FAB fleet with 35.6 meters long. The aircraft, which participates in the "Exercise Orunganitas II" which runs until Wednesday (23), launched free-fall bombs MK-82, which can weigh up to 256 kg - the same device is also used in the F-5 fighters and A -1.
Altogether, according to FAB statement, 10 pumps will be launched in the military firing range of Marambaia, 18 kilometers from Santa Cruz Air Force Base in Rio de Janeiro. The purpose of training, involving 28 soldiers from Orugan Squadron, based in Salvador, is to explore the sensors and capabilities of four-engine aircraft. The FAB has not released pictures or videos of the training.
The squadron commander, Lt. Col. Antonio Ferreira de Lima Junior, explains that the effect of the weapon is inert, but the handling is as if the equipment were real. "All security procedures that armed aircraft in flight requires will be strictly observed", explains the commander of the FAB in a statement.
Although the release occurs at a target located on the ground, the intention is to test the anti-submarine actions. "We intend to evaluate the accuracy of the weapons system and train the crew for operations in territorial waters," he said.
During the mission, an aircraft performs the release of the pump and other valid information the tactical system.
The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) started on Saturday (19) the first launch exercise pumps from the maritime patrol aircraft P-3AM, currently the largest in the FAB fleet with 35.6 meters long. The aircraft, which participates in the "Exercise Orunganitas II" which runs until Wednesday (23), launched free-fall bombs MK-82, which can weigh up to 256 kg - the same device is also used in the F-5 fighters and A -1.
Altogether, according to FAB statement, 10 pumps will be launched in the military firing range of Marambaia, 18 kilometers from Santa Cruz Air Force Base in Rio de Janeiro. The purpose of training, involving 28 soldiers from Orugan Squadron, based in Salvador, is to explore the sensors and capabilities of four-engine aircraft. The FAB has not released pictures or videos of the training.
The squadron commander, Lt. Col. Antonio Ferreira de Lima Junior, explains that the effect of the weapon is inert, but the handling is as if the equipment were real. "All security procedures that armed aircraft in flight requires will be strictly observed", explains the commander of the FAB in a statement.
Although the release occurs at a target located on the ground, the intention is to test the anti-submarine actions. "We intend to evaluate the accuracy of the weapons system and train the crew for operations in territorial waters," he said.
During the mission, an aircraft performs the release of the pump and other valid information the tactical system.
A P-3 of the Canadian Air Force launching MK-82 bombs of free fall (Disclosure)
The Lockheed Martin P-3, also known as "Orion", is in service in Brazil since 2010. The aircraft, manufactured between 1964 and 1965, were acquired for US stocks and modernized in Spain by CASA / EADS and equipped with some the most advanced sensors and antissubimarino warfare equipment.
Despite their age, the P-3 modernized is still considered one of today's most efficient aircraft for surveillance and maritime protection mission. A configuration with four turboprop engines allows long-haul flights that can last up to 17 hours.
The Lockheed Martin P-3, also known as "Orion", is in service in Brazil since 2010. The aircraft, manufactured between 1964 and 1965, were acquired for US stocks and modernized in Spain by CASA / EADS and equipped with some the most advanced sensors and antissubimarino warfare equipment.
Despite their age, the P-3 modernized is still considered one of today's most efficient aircraft for surveillance and maritime protection mission. A configuration with four turboprop engines allows long-haul flights that can last up to 17 hours.
The P-3 can carry up to 9,000 kg of armaments (FAB)
In all, the FAB's fleet has 12 units. The P-3 is the military version of the L-188 Electra II aircraft who served for 30 years in the Rio-São Paulo with Varig.
In all, the FAB's fleet has 12 units. The P-3 is the military version of the L-188 Electra II aircraft who served for 30 years in the Rio-São Paulo with Varig.
