Cessna O-2A

History

To supplement the Cessna O-1 Bird Dogs operating in the forward air controlled (FAC) role in Vietnam, the USAF selected a military variant of the Cessna 337 Skymaster in December 1966. Differences from the commercial model included the communications installation, which was external, and the provision of four under wing hard points, used to carry Minigun or rocket pods, flares, etc. Additional windows were provided in the lower fuselage on the starboard side for use by the observer who sat alongside the pilot. A distinctive feature of the O-2A, as the two Continental IO-360-C/D engines, driving tractor and pusher propellers respectively.

The initial contract for O-2As, placed on December 29, 1966, was for 145, and subsequent contracts brought the total on order to more than 350 by end of 1970.

At the same time the O-2A was ordered, the USAF contracted for 31 O-2Bs. This version, designed for psychological warfare, did not have the wing strong points but was fitted instead with special communications equipment for air-to ground broadcasting, and a leaflet dispenser in the rear starboard side of the fuselage. Apart from this dispenser, the O-2As differed externally from O-2As in having faired propeller spinners like their commercial counterparts.

To speed deliveries of the O-2B, the USAF acquired 31 commercial aircraft built but unsold by Cessna. Deliveries of the O-2B began on March 31, 1967, and of the O-2A a month later Both types were quickly operational in Vietnam.

Quonset Air Museum’s O-2A, saw about 3000 hours of combat in Vietnam, sustained battle damages including patched bullet holes. The aircraft was moth balled at Davis-Montham, then released to the CIA for modification to a pusher turboprop with a 20mm cannon mounted up front. It was equipped with retractable skis for sand operation, and tested in Saudi Arabia.

Specification

Description

Manufacturer: Cessna Aircraft Company, Wichita, Kansas
Designation: O-2
Version: A
Nickname: Sand Crab
Type: Observation and special duties
USAF Serial No.: 68-10997

Dimensions

Length: 29 ft 9 in
Height: 9 ft 4 in
Wingspan: 38 ft 2 in
Wing area: 201 sq. ft

Weights

Empty Weight: 2,848 lb.
Gross Weight: 5,400 lb.

Propulsion

No. of Engines: 2
Power plant: Continental IO-360-C/D piston engines
Horsepower: 210hp each

Performance

Range: 1,060 miles
Cruise Speed: 144 mph at 10,000 ft
Max. Speed: 199 mph at sea level
Ceiling: 19,300 ft

Armament

Four wing hard points can carry weapon pods

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