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Vought OS2U Kingfisher
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NOTE: RC AIRPLANES ARE ON THE BOTTOM HALF OF THE PAGE.
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Specifications
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Primary Function:
Crew:
Engine:
Power:
Weight Empty:
Max. Weight:
Machine Guns:
Ordnance:
Length:
Wingspan:
Cruise Speed:
Max. Speed:
Initial Climb:
Ceiling:
Range:
First Flight:
Year Deployed: |
observation
two
Pratt & Whitney
450 hp
4,120 lbs.
6,100 lbs.
2 - .30 cal.
650 lbs.
33' 10"
35' 11"
125 mph
165 mph
500 fpm
13,000 feet
800 miles
3/1/38
1940 |
The Vought OS2U Kingfisher observation aircraft is best
remembered for its role in rescuing downed airmen during World War II,
often in rough seas and while under enemy attack.
Perhaps the most famous mission performed by a
Kingfisher occurred on November 11, 1942 when one rescued Captain
Eddie Rickenbacker and his crew. There wasn't enough
room in the
aircraft for everyone. Some of the rescued airmen were strapped to the
wings of the Kingfisher while it taxied through rough waters to the nearest land, some 40
miles away.
The Kingfisher was built strong to withstand catapult
launches and landings at sea. Spot welding, unique for the time, was
used in its construction. It was fitted
with floats for landings at
sea which could be replaced with conventional landing gear when the
aircraft flew from runways.
Kingfisher aircraft operated primarily from battleships
and cruisers, directing gunfire, patrolling, observing enemy ships,
and participating in search and rescue.
Land-based aircraft flew as
convoy escorts, protecting Allied shipping. They also flew
anti-submarine missions and could be armed with depth charges.
In addition to the United States Navy and Marine Corps,
Kingfisher aircraft were used by the military of
Argentina, Australia, Chile, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Great Britain,
and Uruguay.
Kingfisher aircraft served the longest in Cuba through 1959, when
they were retired from active service.
A total of 1,519 Vought OS2U Kingfisher aircraft of all
types were produced. A small number of the aircraft survive to date as
museum exhibits.
 Brian Taylor Plans rc Vought Kingfisher.
Pictured above is the rc Vought Kingfisher built from Brian Taylor Plans. Its wingspan is 58". Power can come from .30 to .35 two cycle or .35 to .40 four cycle engines.
The first picture below is of the impressive rc Vought OS2U Kingfisher built by Dave Platt. It has a wingspan of six feet and is powered by his own 1.20 engine.
The second picture below is of the rc Vought Kingfisher scratch built by Captain Dunsel of RC Groups. It
has a four foot wingspan and is powered by a Speed 450 size brushless motor. Weight is around 17 oz.
Pictured third is the great looking rc Vought OS2U Kingfisher built by Mike St. Martin. It has a 43" wingspan and is powered by a geared RZ 2500 motor.
The next picture is of the rc Vought Kingfisher foamy built by Vyceroy of RC Groups. It has three foot wingspan and is powered by a Razor 350 motor.
The bottom picture is of Tom Reiner and his scratch built Vought Kingfisher. It has a wingspan of 5' 2" and is powered by a YS 1.20 engine.
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Vought OS2U Kingfisher
