Flight International reports that Boeing has started final assembly for the first U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon, a derivative of the 737-800ERX. Spirit Aerosystems builds the P-8A fuselage in Wichita, and delivers the final product to Boeing's new facility in the state of Washington.

The delivery of the first fuselage from Wichita opens Boeing's third assembly line for the 737, and Boeing is under contract to deliver the first five test vehicles. The first flight is scheduled for next year, and entry into operational service is slated for 2013.