Is Italy interested in an “Italianized” version of the Kawasaki P-1 as its future MPA-ASW aircraft?

Rumors are circulating in the defense community that Italy may be interested in the Kawasaki P-1 as its next maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare (MPA/ASW) aircraft. According to specialized journalist Gabriele Molinelli, the Italian proposal would consist of acquiring the Japanese P-1s stripped of their original electronics and mission systems, with the intention of integrating them with Italian-origin technology.

There are rumours going around of Italy potentially procuring japanese P-1 airframes for its maritime patrol aircraft needs. «Green» or semi-green airframes, specifically, to then outfit with relevant italian systems where appropriate. Sounds pretty wild, but would be fascinating pic.twitter.com/Y9S9fGHvCO

— Gabriele Molinelli (@Gabriel64869839) December 12, 2024

Urgent need for ASW capability

Italy is looking to incorporate a new maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) by 2029 to bolster its anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capability in response to increased submarine activity in the Mediterranean. Currently, maritime surveillance is handled by the Leonardo P-72A, an aircraft that, while performing patrol functions, lacks ASW capabilities, a shortcoming that has become critical.

The operational requirements for the new MPA include advanced ASW and anti-surface warfare (ASuW) capabilities, multispectral intelligence, secure long-range connectivity, resilience in hostile environments, day and night operations in all weather conditions, as well as greater endurance and time on station compared to the P-72A. The alternatives being considered by Italy are the Boeing P-8A Poseidon, the Kawasaki P-1, and the Leonardo C-27J ASW.

A Tough Competition

The Kawasaki P-1 is one of two high-performance maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare aircraft developed in recent decades to replace the historic P-3 Orion. The other contender is the US Boeing P-8A Poseidon. In the coming years, the European A321 MPA, selected by , will also the competition, though this option is not part of the preliminary shortlist being considered by the Italian authorities.

The Boeing P-8A has been the preferred choice for several countries, including multiple European nations, for their long-range maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare (MPA/ASW) needs. This preference is driven by its adoption by the US Navy, ensuring continuous product evolution, interoperability with US forces, and access to its extensive logistics chain. Additionally, the P-8A is based on the widely operated Boeing 737-800 platform, simplifying logistic and providing access to an already established global supply chain. In this competition, the Kawasaki P-1 has attempted to gain market share, but so far, the dominance of the US model has been unquestionable.

See also: Japan develops new electronic warfare aircraft based on the Kawasaki P-1

An “Italianized” P-1?

The possibility that Italy might opt for the Kawasaki P-1 and integrate Italian-made sensors and armament is mainly explained within the framework of offset agreements and t development agreements between Italy and Japan, which are part of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) led by the United Kingdom. However, the option of «Italianizing» the Kawasaki P-1 is considered a remote possibility. Nonetheless, this idea could gain from Tokyo, which might see this opportunity as a way to position its aircraft in the international market and expand its customer base.