The Lockheed P-2 Neptune is a maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) aircraft. It was developed for the US Navy by Lockheed to replace the Lockheed PV-1 Ventura and PV-2 Harpoon, and was replaced in turn by the Lockheed P-3 Orion. Designed as a land-based aircraft, the Neptune never made a carrier landing, but a small number were converted and deployed as carrier-launched, stop-gap nuclear bombers that would have to land on shore or ditch. The type was successful in export, and saw service with several armed forces.
Lockheed P-2 Neptune
XP2V-1 prototype in 1945
P2V-2 of VP-18 over NAS Jacksonville, 1953
Emerson nose turret from the Neptune at the National Naval Aviation Museum, Florida, 2007
A maritime patrol aircraft (MPA), also known as a patrol aircraft, maritime reconnaissance aircraft, maritime surveillance aircraft, or by the older American term patrol bomber, is a fixed-wing aircraft designed to operate for long durations over water in maritime patrol roles — in particular anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-ship warfare (AShW), and search and rescue (SAR).
A P-3C of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force
SS class airship
British Short Sunderland maritime reconnaissance flying boat
Interior of a French Navy Breguet Atlantic