Anti-submarine and maritime surveillance aircrafts P-3C Orion, which were damaged in PNS Mehran attack, were acquired from United States in June, 2010. These aircrafts are easily recognisable through its distinctive tail stinger used for the magnetic detection of submarines.
The P-3C Orion is used for maritime patrol, reconnaissance, anti-surface warfare and anti-submarine warfare. The two upgraded P-3C Orion reconnaissance aircrafts had been handed over in June 2010 to help Pakistan in boosting maritime security capability.