5 Notable American Dive Bombers Of Ww2

The United States played a significant role in World War II, and its military aircraft were a crucial part of the war effort. Among the many types of planes used during this period, dive bombers were particularly notable for their ability to deliver precise and powerful attacks on enemy targets. In this article, we'll explore five of the most notable American dive bombers of World War II.

These aircraft were instrumental in various battles and campaigns, and their contributions to the Allied victory cannot be overstated. Let's take a closer look at each of these iconic planes.

1. Douglas SBD Dauntless

The Douglas SBD Dauntless was one of the most successful dive bombers of World War II. Its reputation was solidified during the Battle of Midway, where it played a crucial role in sinking four Japanese aircraft carriers. The SBD's accuracy and durability made it a favorite among pilots, and it remained in service until the end of the war.

Key Features and Statistics:

• Crew: 2 (pilot and rear gunner)
• Length: 33 ft 1 in (10.08 m)
• Wingspan: 41 ft 6 in (12.65 m)
• Empty weight: 6,404 lb (2,904 kg)
• Gross weight: 10,360 lb (4,700 kg)
• Powerplant: 1 × Wright R-1820 radial engine, 1,000 hp (750 kW)
• Maximum speed: 250 mph (402 km/h)
• Range: 1,200 miles (1,931 km)
• Service ceiling: 26,000 ft (7,925 m)
• Armament: 2 × 0.50 in (12.7 mm) M2 Browning machine guns, 1 × 0.30 in (7.62 mm) M1919 Browning machine gun

2. Curtiss SB2C Helldiver

The Curtiss SB2C Helldiver was another prominent American dive bomber used during World War II. Despite its problematic development and early production issues, the SB2C eventually proved itself to be a reliable and effective aircraft. It saw extensive service in both the Atlantic and Pacific theaters.

Key Features and Statistics:

• Crew: 2 (pilot and rear gunner)
• Length: 36 ft 8 in (11.18 m)
• Wingspan: 49 ft 9 in (15.16 m)
• Empty weight: 10,095 lb (4,580 kg)
• Gross weight: 16,350 lb (7,420 kg)
• Powerplant: 1 × Wright R-2600 radial engine, 1,900 hp (1,420 kW)
• Maximum speed: 294 mph (473 km/h)
• Range: 1,100 miles (1,770 km)
• Service ceiling: 29,100 ft (8,881 m)
• Armament: 2 × 0.50 in (12.7 mm) M2 Browning machine guns, 1 × 0.30 in (7.62 mm) M1919 Browning machine gun

3. Brewster SB2A Buccaneer

The Brewster SB2A Buccaneer was a lesser-known but still significant American dive bomber used during World War II. Although it saw limited combat, the SB2A played an important role in training pilots and developing tactics for future dive bombing missions.

Key Features and Statistics:

• Crew: 2 (pilot and rear gunner)
• Length: 35 ft 1 in (10.69 m)
• Wingspan: 43 ft 5 in (13.24 m)
• Empty weight: 7,400 lb (3,357 kg)
• Gross weight: 11,300 lb (5,126 kg)
• Powerplant: 1 × Wright R-1820 radial engine, 1,200 hp (895 kW)
• Maximum speed: 276 mph (444 km/h)
• Range: 1,000 miles (1,609 km)
• Service ceiling: 24,000 ft (7,315 m)
• Armament: 2 × 0.50 in (12.7 mm) M2 Browning machine guns, 1 × 0.30 in (7.62 mm) M1919 Browning machine gun

4. Douglas AD Skyraider

The Douglas AD Skyraider was a versatile American aircraft that served as a dive bomber, torpedo bomber, and reconnaissance plane during World War II. Its impressive payload capacity and long range made it an invaluable asset for the US Navy.

Key Features and Statistics:

• Crew: 1 (pilot)
• Length: 38 ft 3 in (11.66 m)
• Wingspan: 50 ft 2 in (15.29 m)
• Empty weight: 10,400 lb (4,717 kg)
• Gross weight: 18,300 lb (8,301 kg)
• Powerplant: 1 × Wright R-3350 radial engine, 2,700 hp (2,013 kW)
• Maximum speed: 320 mph (515 km/h)
• Range: 1,200 miles (1,931 km)
• Service ceiling: 26,000 ft (7,925 m)
• Armament: 4 × 0.50 in (12.7 mm) M2 Browning machine guns

5. Vought SB2U Vindicator

The Vought SB2U Vindicator was the first monoplane dive bomber used by the US Navy. Although it had a relatively short service life, the SB2U played a significant role in the early years of World War II, particularly during the Battle of Midway.

Key Features and Statistics:

• Crew: 2 (pilot and rear gunner)
• Length: 34 ft 1 in (10.39 m)
• Wingspan: 41 ft 5 in (12.62 m)
• Empty weight: 6,450 lb (2,927 kg)
• Gross weight: 9,300 lb (4,219 kg)
• Powerplant: 1 × Pratt & Whitney R-1535 radial engine, 825 hp (615 kW)
• Maximum speed: 250 mph (402 km/h)
• Range: 1,200 miles (1,931 km)
• Service ceiling: 24,000 ft (7,315 m)
• Armament: 2 × 0.50 in (12.7 mm) M2 Browning machine guns, 1 × 0.30 in (7.62 mm) M1919 Browning machine gun

American Dive Bombers of WW2 Image Gallery

We hope you've enjoyed this article about the five most notable American dive bombers of World War II. These aircraft played a significant role in shaping the course of the war, and their legacy continues to inspire aviation enthusiasts today. If you have any thoughts or questions, please feel free to leave a comment below!