- U.S. Naval Air Systems Command issued a request for industry information to develop software upgrades for the LAIRCM defensive system used on P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.
- The proposed upgrade would integrate new software into the Configurable Log Reader to support the aircraft’s infrared missile countermeasure system, with a potential contract award planned for fiscal year 2026.
The United States Navy is seeking industry input on software upgrades for the Large Aircraft Infra-Red Counter Measures (LAIRCM) system used on the P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, according to a presolicitation notice released by the Naval Air Systems Command.
The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), through its Program Executive Office for Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft (PMA-290), issued the notice requesting information from industry on the capability to design, develop, integrate, test, and deliver software for the Configurable Log Reader (CLR) associated with the P-8A Poseidon LAIRCM system.
According to the notice, the requested capability would support a software solution compatible with the existing LAIRCM system installed on P-8A aircraft. The system upgrade would be integrated onto the Configurable Log Reader, which forms part of the aircraft’s defensive architecture.
Under the program outline, contractors would be responsible for designing, developing, manufacturing, and delivering the Configurable Log Reader and related components, including associated software and firmware required to support the existing LAIRCM system.
Companies responding to the notice are asked to provide technical approaches for development, manufacturing timelines, and projected system weight for the assemblies involved.
Northrop Grumman is the original designer, developer, and manufacturer of both the Configurable Log Reader and the LAIRCM system currently installed on the aircraft.
The Navy’s program office plans to equip the P-8A Poseidon fleet with software upgrades integrated into the CLR system as part of continued modernization of the aircraft’s defensive systems.
According to the notice, the anticipated contract award could occur during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2026, with system deliveries expected in fiscal year 2027.
The P-8A Poseidon is a long-range maritime patrol aircraft operated by the U.S. Navy for missions including anti-submarine warfare, maritime surveillance, and reconnaissance operations.
Aircraft operating in these roles often fly in areas where surface-to-air missiles or man-portable air defense systems could pose threats.