P2V-7

Manufacturer - Lockheed

First Flight - 17 May 1945

Original Role - Maritime Patrol & Anti-Sub Warfare

Current Role - Aerial Firefighting

Retardant Load - 2082 US Gal

Tank - 6 door conventional

Engines - R3350, 3700 hp

Jets - J34, 3000# Thrust

The P2V Neptune was the predecessor to the P3 Orion in the Navy’s Maritime Patrol and Anti-Submarine Warfare. It was originally designed by Lockheed, to replace the WWII era PV-2 Harpoon. The Neptune was widely successful throughout the World, namely due to its ease of maintenance and life expectancy.

The P2V was one of the first aircraft to be fitted with both jet and piston engines. The uniqueness is two Wright R-3350 turbo-compound radial engines producing up to 3700 horsepower each, and two Westinghouse J34 Axial Flow Jets producing 3000 pounds of thrust each.

The P2V is currently employed as an air tanker with Minden Air and Neptune Aviation. In its aerial firefighting role with the US Forest Service, it provides fire fighters with an indispensable and timely tool in fighting wildfires. However, the limited lifespan of the P2 has led to development of replacements, including the BAE-146.

  BAE 146-200

Manufacturer - BAE Systems

First Flight - 3 September 1981

Original Role - Airliner

Current Role - Airliner, Air Tanker

Retardant Load - 3000 US Gal

Tank - Constant Flow

Powerplant - Honeywell ALF502-R5, 7000# Thrust

The BAE-146 is a medium sized commercial aircraft that accommodates up to 112 passengers, or 14 tons of freight. The 146 is a high-winged cantilever monoplane, with a t-tail, powered by four hi-bypass turbofan engines.

Previously marketed as the Whisperjet, the BAE-146 operates very quietly, which was a major factor in it’s success in Europe. In addition to its small noise footprint, the BAE-146 designed to operate in other tight envelopes such as steep terrain, short runways, slow flight, and remote airports. All of which make it ideally suited to operate as an air tanker.