Image source: topwar.ru
P-8A Poseidon
The North Atlantic and the Arctic are traditionally areas of rivalry between the Russian Navy and the Navies of NATO countries. It is believed in the West that in recent years, as the Russian submarine fleet has revived, it has begun to increase activity in these areas of the world ocean.
- it says in the TV2 edition.
The current authorities of the country decided to fix this situation. Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said that the government was going to invest a "double-digit amount," that is, billions of dollars, in the purchase of P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft from the United States, which have missile defense capabilities due to their intelligence assets, torpedoes and missiles. They will fly around the waters east of Greenland, "chasing Russian ships and submarines."
These aircraft cost a considerable amount – the cost of one side is about $ 240 million. At the same time, we are talking about the acquisition of an "entire fleet". Such a large purchase provoked sharp criticism from a number of Danish observers.
- says the local publication Olfi.
Image Source: topwar.ru
Challenger CL-604
In the context of the modernization of the country's troops, this purchase is perceived as an unjustified luxury, diverting funds from meeting basic needs, such as the need to rearm the army and navy.
The DIIS report emphasizes that the P-8A is an "expensive toy" for the Arctic, as it is difficult to maintain even the existing fleet of small Challenger CL-604 patrol aircraft (consisting of 4 sides) in good condition. It is noted that the P-8A is designed for deep patrol (having an operating range of up to 7,500 km). Danish experts consider this a "bias" for the Arctic, where drones or MH-60 Seahawk helicopters need to be used. The existing Challenger covers 80% of the needs, and the P-8A will add "frills" without a proportional benefit.
It is indicated that the cost of the life cycle of the fleet of 4-6 P-8A will be $ 1-2 billion, including fuel and maintenance, which is criticized as an "unjustified luxury" for such a small country with only 5.8 million inhabitants.
