
The Lockheed P-3 Orion stands as the premier maritime patrol aircraft of the Cold War era, serving as the backbone of anti-submarine warfare operations for over five decades. First flown in 1959, it was a low-wing turboprop aircraft adapted from the civilian Electra airliner, featuring four Allison T56 engines and specialized maritime patrol equipment. With a wingspan of 99 feet and length of 116 feet, the P-3 could remain airborne for up to 16 hours on extended patrol missions. It was manufactured by the Lockheed Corporation.
View in Encyclopedia| HEX CODE | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Portuguese Air Force | — | 5733 | Portugal | 497c97 | |
| Portuguese Air Force | — | 5773 | Portugal | 497c9b | |
| Portuguese Air Force | — | 5750 | Portugal | 497C98 |