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CESSNA O-2A "SKYMASTER"

(Courtesy of the USAF Museum)

Ever Wonder how our O-2s got to Southeast Asia?

Click here

to read this amusing account as written by Colonel Wood.

 

The O-2 is a military version of the Cessna Model 337 Super Skymaster. Distinguished by twin tail booms and tandem-mounted engines, it features a tractor-pusher propeller arrangement. Derived from the Cessna Model 336, the Model 337 went into production for the civilian market in 1965. In late 1966, the USAF selected a military variant, designated the O-2, to supplement the O-1 Bird Dog forward air controller (FAC) aircraft then operating in Southeast Asia. Having twin engines enabled the O-2 to absorb more ground fire and still return safely, endearing it to its crews. The O-2 first flew in Jan. 1967 and production deliveries began in March. Production ended in June 1970 after 532 O-2s had been built for the USAF.

Two series were produced: the O-2A and the O-2B. The O-2A was equipped with wing pylons to carry rockets, flares, and other light ordnance. In the FAC role the O-2A was used for identifying and marking enemy targets with smoke rockets, coordinating air strikes and reporting target damage. The O-2B was a psychological warfare aircraft equipped with loudspeakers and leaflet dispensers. It carried no ordnance.

The O-2A on display was assigned to the 20th Tactical Air Support Squadron at Da Nang, South Vietnam in the late 1960s. It was transferred to the Museum in December 1982.

Southeast Asia FAC aircraft losses:

O-2A Skymaster total lost: 104     In combat: 82     First loss: 1967     Final loss: 1972

SPECIFICATIONS
Span: 38 ft.
Length: 29 ft. 2 in.
Height: 9 ft. 5 in.
Weight: 4,900 lbs. loaded
Armament: Four wing pylons can carry rockets, flares, 7.62 mini-gun pods, or other light ordnance
Engines: Two Continental
IO-360s of 210 hp. each
Crew: Two
Cost: $92,000
Serial number: 67-21331
C/N: 337M-0037

PERFORMANCE
Maximum speed: 199 mph.
Cruising speed: 144 mph.
Range: 1,060 miles
Service Ceiling: 19,300 ft.

 

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