Douglas XSB2D

[cardboard_killer]

[80 years ago today] "• The Douglas XSB2D dive bomber makes its first flight. Intended to replace both the Douglas SBD Dauntless and the problem-ridden Curtiss SB2C Helldiver, it displays excellent performance while doubling the bomb-load of the Helldiver. An order for 358 quickly follows, but the Navy subsequently changes its requirements, wanting the aircraft to have only a single crewman while adding more fuel and armor.

 

- The new version will be called the BTD Destroyer and its performance will be inferior to the SB2D. Delays from the changes result in only 28 being delivered by war’s end and the contracts being subsequently cancelled.  By then Douglas is working on an improved version that will become the A-1 Skyraider.

 

Douglas XSB2D in 1943

 

Douglas XBTD-1 in late 1944"

 

Skyraider

[ZachariasX]

You can tell if an aircraft has a chance to enter production. Seriously, what kind of captain would want such bastard Stukas on his boat?

[JG1_Vonrd]

Definitely in the competition for most butt ugly / awkward looking aircraft.

Edited April 8, 2023 by JG1_Vonrd

[cardboard_killer]

I like it.

[ZachariasX]

22 hours ago, cardboard_killer said:

I like it.

I do understand why they put another propeller on it:

 

I mean, who‘s laughing now?

 

[AndyJWest]

They should have taken the wings off and taxied it at the enemy. Psychological warfare...