Douglas A-26C "Invader" 1942-1972
Type: Attack Bomber
Weight: 35,000 lbs, loaded
Armament: Eight forward firing .50 caliber machine guns
One turret with two .50 caliber machine guns
Six, 1,000 lb rockets under the wings 14 HVAR Rockets internally
Engine: Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Radial Engines, 2000 hp each costing $192,000 each in 1943
Speed: Maximum – 373 mph, Cruising – 284 mph
Range: 1,400 miles Service Ceiling: 28,000 feet
Crew: 3 - Pilot, bombardier/navigator/pilot and gunner
Number built: 1,091
The A-26 was a rugged, versatile aircraft that served during the closing months of World War II through the beginning of the Vietnam War. The A-26C's glass nose was fitted with a bombardier's compartment designed to serve as a lead ship for a formation. When the lead aircraft dropped their bombs, the rest followed.
The A-26 served with the Louisiana Air National Guard from 1947-1958. This aircraft was restored by members of 122nd Restoration Group in 1995 and 2013.
This aircraft (SN: 4 -35937) is on loan from the United States Air Force Museum. Object ID# 666345