During the Korean War, the Douglas B-26 played an important part in the U.S. Air Force's interdiction campaign against communist ground forces. Initially, B-26 crews flew during the day, but the introduction of the MiG-15 jet fighter forced them to fly most missions at night.
The Douglas B-26 (originally designated the A-26) was a World War II attack aircraft used for level bombing, ground strafing, and rocket attacks. It made its first flight in July 1942, and production delivery began in August 1943. The A-26 entered combat over Europe in November 1944. When production halted after the war, 2,502 Invaders had been built. The A-26 was redesignated the B-26 in 1948 (thus creating everlasting confusion with the WWII Martin B-26 Marauder).
Early in the Southeast Asia War, the Invader returned to action for the third time. Also, the USAF ordered 40 modified B-26Bs with more powerful engines and increased structural strength. Designated the B-26K, these airplanes performed special air warfare missions.
The A-26C on display (S/N 44-35733) was flown to the museum in September 1957. It is painted to represent a B-26C used during the Korean War by the 34th Bomb Squadron flying night intruder missions.
TECHNICAL NOTES:
Armament (as displayed): Six .50-cal. machine guns (two in each under wing pod; two in the upper, remote controlled turret); 6,000 lbs. of bomb carried internally and under wings
Engines: Two Pratt & Whitney R-2800s of 2,000 hp each
Maximum speed: 373 mph
Span: 70 ft.
Length: 51 ft. 3 in.
Height: 18 ft. 3 in.
Weight: 35,000 lbs. loaded
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