Maritime patrol aircraft shot down off Swatow Island

No fatalities • Nan'ao Island (Swatow Island), China • Flight

A maritime patrol aircraft was downed by a Chinese fighter jet during a mission, resulting in the loss of the airframe and the evacuation of all personnel.

What happened

During the execution of a maritime patrol mission, an unidentified aircraft was targeted and shot down by a pilot operating a Chinese fighter jet. The engagement occurred over the ocean, causing the aircraft to crash into the sea in the vicinity of Swatow Island.

Following the impact, all 11 crew members on board were successfully rescued from the water. The survivors were subsequently picked up and moved to the USS Halsey Powell for medical assessment and safety.

Findings

Official investigations determined that the destruction of the aircraft was a direct result of being shot down by a Chinese fighter pilot during its patrol flight.

Probable cause

The aircraft was destroyed after being targeted by a Chinese fighter jet pilot.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1953-01-18 Lockheed P-2 Neptune accident near Nan'ao Island (Swatow Island), China?

A maritime patrol aircraft was downed by a Chinese fighter jet during a mission, resulting in the loss of the airframe and the evacuation of all personnel.

Were there any fatalities in the 1953-01-18 Lockheed P-2 Neptune accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1953-01-18 involved a Lockheed P-2 Neptune, registration 127744, operated by United States Navy - USN, at Nan'ao Island (Swatow Island), China.

What was the probable cause of the accident?