Seville, Spain (June 29, 2006)-- First flight of the Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA). The EADS CASA CN235-300M was selected as the platform for the MPA for the Integrated Deepwater System (IDS) Program, which is aimed at modernizing and replacing its aging surface and air fleet. It is the perfect complement for the Coast Guard fleet of long-range, heavy-lift HC-130 aircraft. Its high-efficiency turbo prop design allows persistent surveillance and quick response speeds in the role of a maritime patrol aircraft. These, plus other additional features allow the Coast Guard to control the movement of high interest vessels and quickly locate mariners in distress. Photo courtesy of Lockheed Martin.