Boeing and Lufthansa Technik Defense have signed a multi-year contract to provide comprehensive technical sustainment services for the German Navy’s expanding fleet of eight P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. The first aircraft was delivered earlier this month.
The agreement covers almost every segment of Lufthansa Technik’s global MRO portfolio, including aircraft maintenance, engine support, component supply, operations management and technical training. With decades of experience maintaining the Boeing 737—the platform on which the P-8A is based—Lufthansa Technik brings near-unmatched expertise to the programme.
“This new contract expands our military MRO portfolio to include its first weapon-bearing aircraft system and further strengthens our long-standing and trusted partnership with the German Armed Forces,” said Michael von Puttkamer, Vice President Special Aircraft Services & Defense at Lufthansa Technik. “The company plays a vital role in ensuring the operational readiness of this new weapon system and, in the spirit of Germany’s Zeitenwende, contributes to strengthening national defence capabilities.”
Lufthansa Technik will support the German Navy from the outset of P-8A operations, with its Hamburg headquarters becoming a core location for line maintenance and mase maintenance activities. Germany now joins New Zealand and India as Lufthansa Technik Defense’s third P-8 customer.
To secure reliable spare-parts availability amid global supply-chain challenges, Lufthansa Technik will provide total component support, giving the Navy access to its dedicated pool of P-8 commercial spares. Open-loop exchanges will allow immediate replacement of unserviceable components, minimise downtime and boost fleet readiness. The company will also manage the supply of consumables and expendables, including bearings, fasteners and lubricants.
To extend engine life and maintain performance in the demanding maritime environment, Lufthansa Technik will conduct detailed engine condition monitoring on the P-8A’s CFM56-7B engines. Early detection of degradation and defects will help avoid unscheduled removals, unnecessary inspections and keep the Poseidon fleet operating efficiently and economically.
