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The Lockheed XP2V-1 Neptune prototype in 1945. The type made its first flight on this day on May 17th 1945. The P2V Neptune series of aircraft was one of the more successful post-war designs for America, with service that spanned decades for a handful of American-friendly countries. The system was designed by Lockheed Corporation from the outset as a land-based maritime patrol and reconnaissance platform. The system proved so versatile and effective, that the base production model spawned a large series of variants in specialized roles.

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.
The P2V Neptune was a twin engine high-wing monoplane design. Sporting various Wright-brand powerplants throughout its production run, the aircraft featured outstanding range. A most identifiable feature being the single large rudder on the empennage, though the overall gangly design of the nose was another memorable feature. The Neptune split time between the United States Navy and the United States Air Force, though it is widely remembered for its service with the Navy branch. Over 1,000 were built in a wide range of variants.


 
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