Due to the delay in the incorporation of the P-3C/N Orion maritime patrol aircraft acquired by the Argentine Navy from the Kingdom of Norway, the Naval Aviation Command continues with the plan to return the Grumman S-2T Turbo Trackers to service, aiming to reinforce patrol and exploration capabilities.
According to sources consulted by Zona Militar, the Antisubmarine Naval Aviation Squadron (EA2S) is progressing with inspection and maintenance tasks aimed at recovering Turbo Tracker registration 2-AS-23. As of the current date, these tasks are reported to be advanced, with remaining work on the propellers and landing gear tires. Additionally, regarding Turbo Trackers registrations 2-AS-21 and 2-AS-24, the Argentine Navy is betting on their recovery, considering the general condition of both aircraft, which are awaiting spare parts for their return to service.
Currently, the Argentine Navy only has Beechcraft B-200 aircraft available for maritime patrol and Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, considering that the last S2-T Turbo Tracker in service (registration 2-AS-23) is not operational, and the P-3B Orion (registration 6-P-56) is undergoing painting work at FAdeA, with its return to service estimated in the first half of the current year.
Regarding the P3-C/N aircraft, although the agreement was signed last November, delays in the transfer of the first installment, beyond the Ministry of Defense’s control, have slowed down their delivery. Therefore, this would be one of the reasons leading the Argentine Navy to rely on the Turbo Trackers again. However, this decision would impact personnel structure, considering the number of available pilots between both systems.
Furthermore, focusing on Naval Aviation, sources confirmed to this outlet that negotiations continue from the Ministry of Defense for the overhaul of the Super Etendard/Super Etendard Modernise (SUE/SEM) weapon system with the aim of finally making this weapon system operational.
*Image credits: Nicolás Ramírez (@nramirez36)
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