That’s nice. I have a few rhetorical questions for you.
So how long can a turbofan engine stay on a low altitude station vs. a jet engine?
Answer: Much, much longer.
So is the wing loading better for a jet engine than a prop engine?
Answer: No, not really, they are two different variables, the P-3 does just fine and if one needs more weapons on station, just take another P-3 with you.
So how good do the avionics need to be for a four engine turbofan airplane?
Answer: Not very good at all.
So is the range of the P-3 too low?
Answer: No, it’s just fine and better than the P-8 thank you very much.
So the range is longer without refueling, the time on station is longer, it carries plenty of weapons, costs less, etc., etc. etc.
You’re right about one thing, you don’t know. You’ve struck out on everyone of your points. Tell us again how the P-8 is going to accomplish the same mission but this time do it with numbers and with a cost comparison.
Simple lesson, higher altitude enables the ability to 'see' further.
Also, the overall maintenance is similar to a number of systems already in place, so parts, logistical supply, and training is refined and simplified keeping operational costs lower.
But thanks for playing. A-hole
P8A
General Characteristics:
Propulsion:Two CFM56-7 engines providing 27,000 pounds thrust each
Length:129.5 feet (39.47 meters)
Wing Span:123.6 feet (37.64 meters)
Height:42.1 feet (12.83 meters)
Maximum Takeoff Gross Weight:189,700 pounds (85,139 kilograms)
Speed:490 knots (564 mi/h, 789 km/h)
Range:1,200+ nautical miles, with 4 hours on station (1,381 miles, 2,222 kilometers)
Ceiling:41,000 feet (12,496 meters)
Crew:9
P3 Orion
Wing span: 100 feet
Length: 117 feet
Height: 34 feet
Weight: maximum takeoff: 142,000 pounds
Speed: maximum: 473 mph
cruise: 377 mph
Ceiling: 28,300 feet
Range: maximum mission radius: 2,380 nautical miles 3 hours on station at 1,500 feet: 1,346 nautical miles
Power plant: four Allison T56-A-14 turboprop engines
Crew: 10