O-2A SUPER SKYMASTER

CESSNA O-2A

SUPER SKYMASTER

 

O-2A

In late 1966 the U.S. Air Force selected a military variant of the Cessna Model 337 Super Skymaster (also known as the “Oscar Deuce” or “The Duck”), designated the O-2, to supplement the O-1 Bird Dog forward air controller (FAC) aircraft then operating in Southeast Asia. Distinguished by twin tail booms and tandem-mounted engines, it featured a tractor-pusher propeller arrangement. Having twin engines enabled the O-2 to absorb more ground fire and still return safely, endearing it to its crews. The O-2 first flew in January 1967, and production deliveries began in March. Production ended in June 1970 after Cessna had built 532 O-2s for the USAF. 

Two series were produced: the O-2A and the O-2B. The O-2A was equipped with wing pylons to carry rockets, flares, and other light ordnance. In the FAC role, the O-2A was used for identifying and marking enemy targets with smoke rockets, coordinating air strikes and reporting target damage. The O-2B was a psychological warfare aircraft equipped with loudspeakers and leaflet dispensers. It carried no ordnance.This plane was used in Vietnam and has a combat record. The movie, “Bat-21,” is a good portrayal of how this plane was used in combat.

SPECIFICATIONS  
Span: 38 ft.
Length: 29 ft. 2 in.
Height: 9 ft. 5 in.
Weight: 4,900 lbs. loaded
Armament: Four wing pylons can carry rockets, flares, 7.62 mini-gun pods, or other light ordnance
Engines: Two Continental 10-360s of 210 hp. each
Crew: Two
Cost: $ 92,000
Tail Number: 68-6871
Nicknames: Snoopy, Oscar Deuce, The Duck
   
PERFORMANCE  
Maximum Speed: 199 mph
Cruising Speed: 144 mph
Range: 1,060 miles
Service Ceiling: 19,300 feet