glossy Sea Blue

US Navy aircraft used Glossy Sea Blue ANA 623 post-World War II. Around 1947/48, its pigment composition was altered to reduce fading and enhance glossiness, resulting in a lighter and more saturated color.  During this period, it became standard practice not to paint the blue sections of the roundel, introduced by Grumman in WWII.  

Starting from 2 January 1947, ANA 623 was used on nearly all major combat aircraft, including patrol planes, seaplanes, and helicopters, which gained importance during the Korean War. Although new paint schemes were introduced in 1955, delays in repainting meant Glossy Sea Blue airframes remained until the late 1950s.

The application of Glossy Sea Blue on patrol aircraft ended on 23 February 1955, when it was determined that Sea Plane Gray FS 26081 would be utilized instead. This semi-gloss dark gray possesses a subtle blue undertone. B&W photographs make it virtually indistinguishable from the preceding Glossy Sea Blue, complicating efforts to ascertain the exact timing of the switch to the new color scheme. Color photographs can also be challenging to differentiate due to varying color balances or lighting conditions that often result in a near-identical appearance.  However, careful observation may reveal the subtle differences between the Sea Plane Gray and the Insignia Blue of the Star and Bars.  (Examples Below)

From 2 October 1958, all ASW aircraft commenced painting the upper portion of the fuselage Insignia White FS 17875. This 'white top' scheme aimed to reflect solar heat off the fuselage roof, a technique previously implemented on other large, high-endurance aircraft such as transports and utility aircraft. The hard demarcation line typically ran along the vertical edge of the sides, with Insignia White restricted to the fuselage; consequently, the wings, fins, and stabilizers remained in Sea Plane Gray.

During this time is would not be unusual for squadrons to have a mix of old and new schemes. Squadron aircraft would often be sent to Naval Aircraft Rework/Refit Facilities and in turn receiving replacement aircraft with the white fuselage roofs. 

The Sea Plane Gray scheme persisted for just over a decade. A new specification issued June 29, 1964, saw the elimination of the special patrol paint scheme.  All patrol planes would still carry the Glossy Insignia White solar reflecting fuselage roof with the remainder of the plane now being finished in Light Gull Gray FS 36440.  The Neptune would wear this scheme until the end of Navy Fleet and Reserve service.