The generic term for ‘maritime patrol’ (or reconnaissance) aircraft (MPA), essentially denotes a fixed-wing, multi-engined aircraft type, designed to operate for long durations over water, in particular for anti-submarine and anti-surface vessel warfare, intelligence - surveillance - reconnaissance (ISR) tasks, as also search and rescue.
The first aircraft that can be considered as pioneers in this role were flown by the Royal Naval Air Service during World War I, primarily on airborne patrol against the growing threat of German submarines. There were complemented by lighter-thanair ships (Zeppelins and Blimps) which were capable of staying aloft for long periods of time (as much as 10 hours) as needed for such tasks, whilst still carrying useful payload.

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