MSDF to resume use of P-1 patrol planes

The Maritime Self-Defense Force is expected to resume operations of its P-1 maritime patrol aircraft as early as this month, as the Defense Ministry has identified the cause of trouble with the plane’s engines that caused one of the aircraft to experience engine failure midflight in May.

The ministry announced Sept. 27 that the cause of patrol aircraft’s trouble was a problem in the fuel engine injection valves. The MSDF suspended flights of the P-1 planes following the incident.

Based on the findings, the ministry will repair five P-1 planes deployed at its bases, including Atsugi Air Base in Kanagawa Prefecture, then provide an explanation to local governments concerned.

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