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An aircraft identification poster issued by the Ministry of Supply during the early years of the Cold War. This document, aimed at various UK military branches, provides specifications for Lockheed's Neptune P2V aircraft, revealing the characteristics of the aircraft, noting the aircraft's sections, gears, propellers, length, and span.
The detailed metrics provided in the poster, such as the dimensions of the propeller and wings, the length of 75 feet 4 inches, and the span of 100 feet, offer a snapshot of the capabilities of this aircraft. Such parameters were essential for military personnel to identify and understand the performance of the aircraft, allowing for effective strategy planning and operations.
The post-World War II era saw an unprecedented evolution in aviation technology and design, driven by the needs of the Cold War and the anticipation of potential future conflicts. The 1940s, in particular, was a decade of rigorous research, innovation, and the production of various aircraft models, tailored to specific military and strategic needs. The Neptune P2V, equipped with two duplex cyclone aero-engines, was part of this evolution, designed to meet the demands of a rapidly modernizing armed forces. In 1946, a P2V nicknamed "The Truculent Turtle," fitted with extra fuel tanks, broke the record for the longest un-refueled flight, flying the 10,212-mile distance from Perth, Australia to Columbus, Ohio in 55 hours and 18 minutes.
In the context of military aviation history, this poster stands as a testament to the meticulous efforts made in documenting and disseminating aircraft specifications. It underscores the significance of information distribution among military personnel and the pivotal role played by such documents in ensuring smooth and informed operations during a period of intense geopolitical tension.
