5 Facts About America’s First Monoplane Dive Bomber
YouTube / Rex's Hangar
The Vought SB2U Vindicator was a bomber that represented the start of both a major shift in American bombing design and naval bombing tactics.
Here are five interesting facts that you need to know about this iconic plane:
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1. It was the first monoplane dive bomber put in service by the US Navy
It first entered service in the 1930s but by the time it saw combat, it was already lagging behind.
2. The SB2U was known as Chesapeake in the Royal Navy service
However, many airmen preferred the name Cheesecake, instead.
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3. It saw service in the Battle of Midway, nearly seven years after the aircraft first entered service
At this point, the Vindicator was already outclassed by modern US dive bombers. As expected, Vindicators saw heavy losses during the battle.
4. The Vindicator served valiantly during WWII
Despite its short life, it was utilized by the US Navy and Marine Corps. It was also used by the French and Royal Navy.
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5. Only one example of the aircraft survives today
This is aircraft number 1383 which had originally been a landing accident. The plane sank at the bottom of Lake Michigan but was recovered in 1990. After a long restoration, the plane can now be displayed at the National Navy Aviation Museum in Florida.
