This is the Curtiss SB2C Helldiver, the U.S. Navy’s carrier-based dive bomber introduced in 1943. Compared to the SBD Dauntless it replaced, the Helldiver was larger, with a 49-foot wingspan, powered by a 1,900-horsepower Wright R-2600 Twin Cyclone radial engine. Pilots used perforated dive brakes on the wings to stabilize steep 70-degree dives, rolling in from altitude, aiming, and releasing bombs at around 1,500 feet before pulling out under heavy G-forces. The aircraft’s versatility made it d

The World's Last Flying Curtiss SB2C Helldiver! There's something magical about seeing those wings fold down and the roar of the engine. Pilot Ed Vessly was kind enough to stop for a quick chat before flying the Helldiver home to Texas #museums #history #learn #wwii #pilots #aviationgeek #WingsMuseum #airforce #navy Commemorative Air Force Housting Wing Commemorative Air Force SB2C Helldiver U.S. Navy | Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum