This Neptune 273 (an SP-2H/P2V-7 ) served with the RAAF at No 10 Squadron until retired in 1977. It is immaculately stored in HARS Aviation Museum, Shellharbour Airport, Australia, with an airworthy status. In fact, as of 31/12/2023, it is the only airworthy example globally.
The Lockheed Neptune was the first aircraft designed for long range, maritime patrol, anti-submarine warfare tasks. Beginning with the P2V-5F model, the Neptune became one of the first operational aircraft fitted with both piston and jet engines.
The two piston engines are fired up initially. In contrast, the two jet engines won't start until the aircraft has arrived at the threshold of the takeoff runway, just to save fuel as jet engines are thirsty beasts for fuel.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Detailed Aircraft History (from HARS website)
"P2V-7 Neptune A89-273 (later designated SP-2H) was built at Lockheed’s Burbank plant in California, USA. The manufacturers serial number was No. 7273. Bauer No. 149,073, being delivered to the RAAF and arriving in Townsville on the 10 March 1962.
It was allocated to 10 Squadron, which then operated out of Townsville, as an Anti-Submarine Reconnaissance aircraft, and was one of a total of 24 Neptunes operated by RAAF 10 and 11 Squadrons. It served with 10 Squadron from March 1962 until being retired from RAAF service in May 1977 when it was placed in storage at Townsville awaiting disposal. During its years of service A89-273 logged a total of 5476 flying hours.
Long after the aircraft was de-commissioned it was acquired from a private owner in Townsville by members of the Society, interestingly enough on 1st April 1988.
Since its total restoration over 10 years ago, this aircraft has been on the Air Show circuit thrilling audiences with an imaginative flying routine. In November 1996, the Society commenced an extensive maintenance program on Neptune A89-273 from nose to tail, culminating in the aircraft being declared airworthy again in January 1998. All maintenance was carried out by our own engineering team.
In November 1999, the Society had great pride in returning 273 back to its old squadron at Edinburgh Air Force Base in South Australia to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the formation of 10 Squadron in 1939. Edinburgh is now the home base for this squadron. Neptune A89-273 VH-IOY is the only former RAAF Lockheed Neptune flying in Australia and is maintained, operated and crewed by members of HARS who maintain a high degree of maintenance and safety, and continually strive to maintain the aircraft in immaculate condition. With large amounts of spare parts and engines available it is anticipated that Neptune A89-273 will continue to be maintained in a flying condition and appearing at air shows throughout Australia for many years to come."
