Curtiss-Wright C-46 Commando "China Doll" model airplane
|
|
|
C-47 #2 (OD) |
|
|
|
On March 26, 1940, Curtiss-Wright flew the prototype of a 36-seat commercial airliner which had the company designations CW-20. Its large capacity fuselage aroused US Army interest for cargo/transport and casualty evacuation, and a militarized version of the airplane was ordered into production under the designation C-46 and named Commando. When the first airplane of this model entered service in July, 1942, they were the largest and heaviest twin-engine aircraft to serve with the USAAF, and proved such a valuable transport in the Pacific Theater of operations that well over 3,000 Commandos were built before production of the airplane ended. Though overshadowed in fame by the Douglas C-47, the C-46 nevertheless could carry a far greater load. The C-46 was found to have better performance than the C-47 at the altitudes involved in carrying vital supplies over the Himalayas to China from India, after the loss of the "Burma Road". These airplanes made a vital contribution to the success of this airlift of essential war materials into China. In the Pacific the Commando played a significant role in the island-hopping operations which culminated in Japanese surrender. Commandos remained in service with both the USAAF/USAF and the USMC after World War II had ended. The USAF employed C-46s operationally during the Korean War, as well as in the early stages of hostilities in Vietnam, and a very small number of this airplane still remain in service with civilian operators, chiefly freight haulers in Central and South America. The C-46A was powered by two 2,000-hp Pratt & Whitney R-2800-51 radial piston engines giving the airplane a maximum speed of 270 mph at 15,000 feet, cruising speed of 173 mph, service ceiling of 24,500 feet, and a range of 3,150 miles at 173 mph. All airplane models are Hand Carved, Hand Painted Mahogany and come fully assembled with removable desk stand. Dimensions: Wingspan, 20" -Length, 14" -Scale, 1/65 Item #1 or 2- Air Corps Price $134.95 • Check our ordering information page for UPS shipping charges • Order
Toll Free |
|
|
|
|