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Lockheed EP-3E Aries II

Lockheed · Maritime Patrol / ASW · USA · Early Jet (1946–1969)

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SIGINT/ELINT variant of P-3 Orion for signals intelligence collection. Bristling with antennas for electronic eavesdropping. Famous for collision with Chinese J-8 fighter April 1 2001 over South China Sea; crew landed at Lingshui Air Base Hainan Island creating major diplomatic incident. Being replaced by drones.

Specifications

Category
Fixed Wing
Sub-Category
Electronic Warfare
Domain
Dual-Use
Era
Early Jet (1946–1969)
Country
USA
Manufacturer
Lockheed
Operator
USN VQ-1 / VQ-2
Primary Role
Maritime Patrol / ASW
Status
Retired
Service Entry
1969
Produced
12
Propulsion
Turboprop
Engine
4x Allison T56-A-14 turboprop
Thrust / Power
18,400 shp total
Launch
Ground
Length (ft)
116.8
Wingspan (ft)
99.6
Empty Weight (lb)
61491
MTOW (lb)
142000
Endurance (hr)
12
Service Ceiling (ft)
28300
Range (mi)
3500
Max Speed (mph)
410