US-2 exports, the P-8 production line, and a possible ASW variant

A country buying P-8s might still want additional aircraft for search, long-range maritime patrol, and support for anti-submarine operations. The P-8 has one production line, so the US-2 offers a possible additional source of airframes with overlapping roles and different capabilities. Its distinct amphibious design could also make the case for buying it alongside the P-8 easier to explain. Current US-2 production is limited to search-and-rescue aircraft, although its anti-submarine heritage and installed electronics are presented as a basis for a possible ASW version. A separate LHTEC T800 turboshaft provides power for onboard systems and may also run a compressor. These features support the argument for future development, without establishing that an ASW US-2 is already in production.