by Lyle Dillie | Newsletter Chairman – Mariner Marlin Association | December 2023

The Martin P5M-2 Marlin, an American-made maritime patrol flying boat, holds a unique position in the annals of French naval aviation. This article delves into the operational history, squadron deployment, and the broader impact of the P5M-2 Marlin in the French Navy, highlighting its strategic significance during the Cold War era.

Historical Background and Acquisition

Developed as an advanced maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) aircraft, the P5M-2 Marlin was a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the PBM Mariner. Featuring improved aerodynamics, more powerful engines, and advanced detection systems like the magnetic anomaly detector (MAD) tail boom, the Marlin was a cutting-edge aircraft
for its time.

France’s acquisition of the P5M-2 Marlin in the late 1950s was part of a concerted effort to modernize its naval aviation capabilities, especially against the backdrop of the Cold War’s maritime challenges.

French Squadrons and Deployment

The primary squadrons in the French Navy operating the Marlins were:
• Escadrille 3S: Engaged in maritime patrol roles, this squadron was crucial in integrating the Marlin into French naval operations.
• Flottille 24F: This squadron utilized the Marlins for a range of maritime missions, including surveillance and ASW.

These squadrons deployed the Marlins in strategically important locations:

• Mediterranean Sea: For patrolling the vital maritime region and monitoring naval activity.
• French Polynesia: In the Pacific, the Marlins were essential for overseeing French territorial waters.
• Atlantic Ocean: The Marlins played a significant role in the surveillance of transatlantic shipping lanes and reconnaissance operations.

Operational Use and Challenges

The Marlins were employed for long-range maritime patrols, ASW, and monitoring shipping lanes. The aircraft faced operational challenges such as the need for rigorous maintenance due to the harsh marine environment and the logistical complexities of requiring specialized seaplane facilities.

Modifications and Upgrades

French Marlins underwent specific modifications to fit into the existing naval ecosystem. This included upgrades in electronics, avionics, and possibly the integration of European-sourced weapons and ASW gear.

Legacy and Retirement

The Martin P5M-2 Marlins served with the French Navy for several years, marking the end of the era of large flying boats in French service. Their contribution to maritime patrol and ASW missions during a critical period of naval aviation history is a testament to the aircraft’s utility and adaptability.

The French use of the Martin P5M-2 Marlin exemplifies the aircraft’s strategic importance in maritime security during the Cold War. Its deployment across the Mediterranean, the Atlantic, and the Pacific underlines its significance in maritime surveillance and ASW operations. The legacy of the Marlin in French naval aviation is a story of adaptability, endurance, and strategic foresight.

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“Flying Boats & Seaplanes: A History from 1905,” by Jennifer Gradidge, 2020 – Offers an extensive overview of the development and operational use of flying boats, including the Martin P5M Marlin.

“Cold War Warriors: The Story of the U.S. Navy’s Maritime Patrol Aircraft,” by William E. Scarborough, 2019 – Provides insights into the design and operational history of U.S. Navy maritime patrol aircraft, including those used by allied forces.

“French Naval Aviation: A Historical Account,” by Jean-Pierre Montbazet, 2021 – Chronicles the evolution of French naval aviation, including the acquisition and use of American aircraft like the Martin P5M-2 Marlin.