What happened
During a routine patrol mission over the Sea of Japan, a Lockheed P2V-5 Neptune was intercepted by at least two Soviet MiG fighters. At approximately 17:58 local time, the aircraft was traveling on a magnetic course of 090 degrees near coordinates 41 degrees 51 minutes north and 132 degrees 47 minutes east. Shortly after, at 18:07 local time, the flight path was adjusted to 067 degrees magnetic while maintaining an altitude of roughly 8,000 feet and a ground speed of 180 knots.
After five minutes on this new course, Soviet fighter aircraft approached from behind and initiated an attack. The pilot attempted evasive maneuvers, including a sharp right turn and a steep descent at rates between 2,000 and 3,000 feet per minute, seeking cover within a nearby cloud bank. Despite these efforts, the fighters opened fire again, striking the left wing and triggering a rapid fire that spread into the fuselage.
As the aircraft descended to an altitude of approximately 400 feet above the water, the crew began abandoning the plane. The Lockheed P2V-5 Neptune impacted the sea and drifted only 50 to 70 yards from the initial contact point. Of the 10 crew members on board, 9 survived by reaching a life raft, while 1 fatality occurred during the incident. The survivors were later recovered by a USN SA-16 Albatross.
Findings
- The engagement began over international waters, positioned approximately 33 to 40 nautical miles from Soviet territory, near 42 degrees 22 minutes north and 134 degrees 11 minutes east.
- The aircraft was shot down by two Soviet MiG fighters.