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| The first of deHavilland Canada's "bushplanes," the DHC-2 Beaver was developed in 1947 as a rugged, highly-versatile aerial truck which could take off and land almost anywhere, carry a large load, and be very reliable. It succeeded in all these areas in the civilian sector, so it was almost inevitable that, in 1951, the Beaver would be selected by the US Air Force and Army as a new liaison aircraft. In the nine years that followed, 968 L-20As were delivered to the armed forces, most going to the Army. They served in both the Korean and Vietnam wars, hauling freight and personnel around the battlefields, mapping enemy troop positions, leading search/rescue missions, and relaying radio traffic, among other missions.
In 1962, the L-20 was re-designated the U-6A, and many remaining examples remained in service well into the 1970s. Beavers were also purchased and used by the military services of several other nations, including Britain, Chile and Columbia. Civilian Beavers have served in over 50 countries, and many still continue to fly all around the world, with a small number restored and flown as warbirds. SPECIFICATIONS: Engines: One 450-hp Pratt & Whitney R-985-AN Wasp Junior radial piston engine. Weight: Empty 2,850 lbs., Max Takeoff 5,100 lbs. Wing Span: 48ft. 0in. Length: 30ft. 4in. Height: 9ft. 0in. PERFORMANCE: Maximum Speed: 140 mph Cruise Speed: 110 mph Range: 770 miles |
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| Bibliography: Warbird Alley |