Today in Aviation History: First Flight of the Lockheed CP-140 Aurora

On March 22, 1979, the Lockheed CP-140 Aurora took to the skies for the very first time. A maritime patrol aircraft used by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), the CP-140 is based on the Lockheed P-3 Orion, which serves a similar role in the United States Navy. While the airframes are similar, the key difference between the P-3 and the CP-140 lies in their electronics. The Aurora is equipped with the same advanced electronics suite found in the Lockheed S-3 Viking, which was retired by the US Navy in 2016 and by NASA in 2021.

The CP-140 Aurora typically operates with a crew of twelve to fifteen, though it can fly with a minimum crew of eight. Powered by four Allison T56-A-14-LFE turboprop engines, each providing 4,909 horsepower, the aircraft is capable of a maximum speed of 432 miles per hour and a range of 5,000 nautical miles. It can remain airborne for up to 8 hours and 12 minutes, with a range of 1,000 nautical miles from base.

While the Aurora is known for its impressive performance, it also packs a punch. The aircraft features an internal weapons bay with hardpoints capable of carrying up to 8 weapons, with a maximum capacity of 4,800 pounds. Additionally, it has 10 wing-mounted hardpoints for up to 2,450 pounds of munitions. The Aurora is capable of carrying Mk 46 Mod V torpedoes, conventional bombs, and, with minor modifications, air-to-surface rockets. It often carries flares, smoke markers, and signal chargers for various mission requirements.

Originally developed during the Cold War for anti-Soviet submarine operations, the CP-140 Aurora has proven its longevity and effectiveness. Despite the eventual introduction of newer, jet-powered fleets, the Aurora continues to serve both the US Navy and the Royal Canadian Air Force, fulfilling its mission with distinction. When its time for retirement comes, the CP-140 will leave a legacy of reliability and capability.