Rick Kirkland
![Rick Kirkland](/assets/img/authors/unknown.jpg)
Rick Kirkland
affordable aircraft assessment extending extension fleet increased interest life limits maintain maritime nations operation patrol program reaching result service sooner structural vital
Interest in extending the service life of the world's P-3 and CP-140 fleet has increased as a result of the P-3 Structural Life Assessment Program (SLAP). With many of the P-3 aircraft in operation now reaching their service life limits sooner than expected, and with no affordable replacement maritime patrol aircraft available, a service life extension is the only way for nations to maintain this vital operational capability.