North American T-6

Abstract

The goal of my thesis was to use all of my design, illustration and photographic skills to create an excellent interactive CD on the North American T-6. The most widespread and ver satile training aircraft ever built, the T-6 was used by more air forces world-wide than any other. A brilliant concept developed and mod ified throughout a decade resulted in more than 17,000 flying machines, of which, more than 600 are still flying fifty years later. The best loved and most remembered single engine training aircraft of all time, the T-6 was an adaptable, rugged aircraft that performed in the unexpected roles of fighter aircraft, dive-bomber, COIN airplane, and ground attack machine. Now, most commonly seen at air dis plays and air races the T-6 is esteemed by stunt aces and formation teams alike, but best remembered as the aircraft that spawned eral generations of young pilots in countries as diverse as Brazil and the Soviet Union. This ubiquitous aircraft had almost as many official destinations and names as it had uses and users. The NA-26, BC-1, NA-44, AT-6, SNJ, Texan, J- Bird, Harvard, Wirraway, Ceres and a host of other variants, marks and modifications to the same standard design proliferated down the years as engines and concepts were altered around the same basic airframe. Yet, all of these aircraft are manifestations of one- the North American T-6. Many facets of this hugely versatile aircraft's repertoire have been covered within the limited format of a CD. While it is obvious that not every aspect of the T-6 could be encompassed, every effort has been made to include a broad range of subjects. Through my research, I have contacted muse ums, flying teams, individual owners, and enthusiasts from all across North America. All parties interviewed were more than eager to share their vast knowledge of the T-6.