Lockheed EP-3E ARIES II

Mission

Four-engine turboprop signals intelligence (SIGINT) reconnaissance aircraft.

Background

During the 1990s twelve P-3Cs were converted to EP3-E ARIES II to replace older versions of the aircraft. The original ARIES I aircraft were converted in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The last EP-3E ARIES II aircraft was delivered in 1997. EP-3Es have been heavily engaged in reconnaissance in support of NATO forces in Bosnia, joint forces in Korea and in Operation Southern Watch, Northern Watch, and Allied Force.

Features

The EP-3E ARIES II (Airborne Reconnaissance Integrated Electronic System II) is the Navy’s only land-based signals intelligence (SIGINT) reconnaissance aircraft. The 11 aircraft in the Navy’s inventory are based on the P-3 Orion airframe and provide fleet and theater commanders worldwide with near real-time tactical SIGINT. With sensitive receivers and high-gain dish antennas, the EP-3E exploits a wide range of electronic emissions from deep within targeted territory.

Specifications

Official DesignationEP-3E ARIES II
Airborne Reconnaissance Integrated Electronic System II
Primary RoleSignals Intelligence (SIGINT) reconnaissance aircraft
National OriginUSA
Original ContractorLockheed Martin Aeronautical Systems Company
OperatorUnited States Navy
Wingspan99 feet, 6 inches (30.36m)
Length116 feet, 7 inches (35.57m)
Height at Tail33 feet, 7 inches (10.27m)
ArmamentNone
EnginesFour Allison T-56-A-14 turboprops
Horsepower4,900 shp each
Cruise Speed403 mph (644 km/h)
Max Speed466 mph (745km/h)
Range2,380 nm
Service Ceiling28,300 feet (8,625m)
Operating WeightUnknown
Max Takeoff Weight139,760 pounds (63,394kg)
Basic Crew22
Date Deployed1992
Total in Service11