Via Defence.
The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) recently unveiled the newly restored Lockheed P2V-7 Neptune A89-280, which has served as a gate guardian at RAAF Base Townsville, Queensland, since 2012. This iconic maritime patrol and surveillance aircraft has a storied history, having operated out of Townsville with 10 Squadron from 1962 until the late 1970s. One of its notable missions included locating the wreck of HMS Pandora, which sank on the Great Barrier Reef in 1791.
The RAAF flew Neptune aircraft from 1951 to 1978, initially with 11 Squadron and later with 10 Squadron. Designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW), surface ship detection, and general reconnaissance, the fleet included 12 P2V4/5 aircraft (designated P2E) that entered service with 11 Squadron at RAAF Base Pearce in Western Australia in 1951. These aircraft were originally powered by two R3350 radial engines and later retrofitted with Westinghouse J-34 auxiliary jets.
After relocating to RAAF Base Richmond, 11 Squadron experienced a tragedy in 1959 when one Neptune crashed during an air test, resulting in the loss of the aircraft and crew. The remaining Neptunes were eventually replaced by P-3B Orion aircraft in 1968, and the squadron moved to RAAF Base Edinburgh in South Australia. Meanwhile, 10 Squadron in Townsville received 12 P2V-7 Neptunes (later designated SP-2H) in 1962. These aircraft featured enhancements such as a rounded cockpit canopy, streamlined tip tanks, and advanced tactical and navigation displays. Despite some drawbacks, including limited range and cramped crew conditions, the SP-2H proved effective in its early years. However, by 1978, the Neptune fleet was retired and replaced by the more modern P-3C Orions, marking the end of an era.
The restoration of Neptune A89-280 was led by the Air Force History and Heritage’s Static Display Aircraft Support Section (SDASS). Over seven weeks, a team of 12 reservists worked in Townsville’s Hangar 75 to address climate-induced damage, remove corrosion, and apply environmentally friendly paint. This comprehensive effort involved repairing the aircraft’s structure and treating exposed surfaces.
The A89-280 holds special significance as the last Neptune delivered to the RAAF in May 1962. It served in maritime patrol, surveillance, and anti-submarine roles until its retirement in 1977. The aircraft sustained damage from Cyclone Yasi in 2011, prompting major restoration efforts in 2012. These efforts rebuilt A89-280 using components from other damaged Neptunes.
Warrant Officer David Dowe, who oversaw the SDASS team, described the restoration as one of the group’s most ambitious projects. “We have restored and refurbished Caribous, Canberras, and an F-111, but nothing this big,” he noted. Dowe highlighted the scale of the task, adding, “It’s such a beast, and it was a hell of a long way down to the hangar floor from the highest level of the scaffolding.” The team’s dedication ensured the aircraft was ready for display by Remembrance Day on November 11, 2024. Group Captain Andrew Tatnell, Director of Air Force Heritage Projects, praised the team’s efforts in overcoming challenges posed by 12 years of oxidation and corrosion caused by Townsville’s salt-laden sea breezes. “I’m very proud of the team’s skill and dedication. Successfully completing this project on time was an outstanding achievement,” Tatnell remarked.
The Lockheed P2V-7 Neptune A89-280 now stands proudly at the entrance to RAAF Base Townsville, a testament to the skill and commitment of those who restored it and a tribute to its historical significance in the RAAF’s maritime patrol operations.