About the DOUGLAS A-26C
The Douglas A-26C Invader is a distinguished general aviation aircraft primarily designed as a light bomber and ground attack aircraft during World War II. The A-26 Invader, developed by Douglas Aircraft Company, was an advanced and versatile addition to the U.S. Army Air Forces' arsenal. Work on the A-26 began in the early 1940s, with its first flight on July 10, 1942. It officially entered service in 1943, filling the need for a fast, highly maneuverable aircraft capable of carrying out varied roles, including bombing, strafing, close air support, and reconnaissance missions. Production continued into the post-war period, with the A-26C variant being one of its final wartime evolutions, featuring a greenhouse canopy and improved armament capabilities. Overall, around 2,450 A-26s were built, with nearly half being the A-26C variant. The A-26C's design incorporated several innovative features, a testament to its advanced engineering for the era. It boasted a sleek, powerful twin-engine setup with Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp engines, providing immense power and reliability. It also featured a versatile bomb bay and multiple gun configurations, enhancing its adaptability on various missions. This aircraft was primarily utilized in the European and Pacific theaters, where it demonstrated exceptional performance in both bombing and ground attack roles. The A-26C could deliver precise strikes against strategic targets, contributing significantly to Allied forces' successes. Post World War II, the A-26C saw further action during the Korean War under the designation B-26. Its impressive speed, payload capacity, and durability ensured its continued use even as newer aircraft models emerged. The A-26C Invader's legacy extends into the realms of civilian aviation today. Restored and maintained by aviation enthusiasts and museums, it represents an iconic symbol of mid-20th-century air combat engineering. Its adaptability and pioneering design continue to be celebrated, underscoring its vital role in aviation history.