John “Chris” Christiansen (May 1, 1923 － September 12, 1998) was the chief military test pilot forLockheed California Company for over 30 years. He might be most known for having performedLockheed S-3 Viking's maiden flight on January 21, 1972.[1][2] His assignments also included the initial test flights ofLockheed P-3 Orion.[3] Christiansen was born inOslo, Norway in 1923 and became an American citizen in 1939.[4] He later served in theU.S. Navy during World War II and theKorean War. He began experimental flying forLockheed Martin in 1953, and worked there until his retirement in 1984. He was a fellow atSociety of Experimental Test Pilots.[5]
He retired in May 1984 after 31 years as an experimental test pilot for Lockheed Martin. He moved toTarzana, Los Angeles following his retirement. He died on September 12, 1998, inLake Havasu City, Arizona.
Christiansen is honored at theU.S. Navy Patrol and Reconnaissance Memorial onNaval Air Station Whidbey Island inWashington, which was erected by theUnited States Navy. The memorial inscription reads: "Special thanks to Mr. John Christiansen for his many contributions to the development and testing of the P-3.Lockheed P-3 Orion. Missions: Patrol, Antisubmarine Warfare, Electronic Warfare and Reconnaissance."[6][7][8]