Navy Blimp ZPG2-W

The blimp shown was flown by U.S. Navy squadron ZW-I out of Lakehurst, New Jersey. Built by Goodyear Aircraft Corporation. ZP2N re-designated ZPG-2 (1954). W model for Airborne Early Warning picket duty. They were part of the Distant Early Warning (DEW) picket line. Span 343 ft. Helium capacity 1,011,000 cu.ft. Powered by two 700 hp Wright Cyclone engines. Max speed 80 mph. Cruising speed 57 mph. Record flight of 8,216 miles in 264 hours. Lakehurst NJ to west Africa to Key West FL non-stop. In service until Navy lighter than air program discontinued on 30 November 1961.