This P-40E is headed to Pioneer Aero in New Zealand for restoration work.  Pioneer Aero has announced that it will be arriving at their shop in mid September.

Some information on the recovery and condition of this P-40E from lend lease aircraft: “The P-40E was recovered from its watery grave of 55 years on 31 August 1997. Although the lake was relatively shallow, the aircraft was brought to the surface using flotation gear and gradually brought to the shore. In shallower water the tail plane and fin were removed along with the ammunition boxes and covers to the wings. The P40-E seemed remarkably complete and well-preserved.  The only effects from the water seemed to be corrosion to the ferrous elements. For example, the metal handles for the ammunition boxes had rusted away. Likewise, the magnesium cam covers and items on the rear of the Allison engine had literally dissolved to nothing. The wheel hubs that appeared to have been protected more by the silt looked to be intact and the tires were still inflated.”

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Information Sources and Photo Credits:

http://lend-lease.airforce.ru/english/articles/sheppard/p40recovery/

Pioneer Aero