Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 4:56:27-4:59:28

Placing the CP-107 Argus against the P-3 Orion

The Argus's likely advantage over early Orions diminished as later P-3 variants developed.

Aircraft DevelopmentAnti-Submarine WarfareCanadair CP-107 ArgusLockheed P-3 OrionMaritime Patrol AircraftRoyal Canadian Air Force
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Question

Was the CP-107 Argus the best maritime patrol aircraft of its time?

Short answer

It was among the best and probably better than early Orions, but later P-3 variants overtook it.

Notes

Substantial Canadian investment supported the development of the CP-107 Argus. It was an excellent maritime patrol aircraft, but calling it the best requires specifying the period of comparison. The Argus probably surpassed early P-3 Orions. Later Orion variants became more capable as their production and development continued. Comparing successive versions therefore matters more than treating the Argus and Orion as two fixed designs across their entire careers.