Why The A-20 HAVOC Was the Most Underrated Bomber for Ground Attack

During World War II, the Douglas Aircraft Company created several important airplanes. Notable among them are the SBD Dauntless dive bomber and the C-47 Skytrain. However, the A-20 Havoc often doesn’t get as much recognition even though it played a crucial role on many fronts including Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Pacific.

The Versatile A-20 Havoc: A Multi-Role Attack Bomber

The A-20 stands out because it was the most-produced attack bomber during the war, with a total of 7,477 units built. This mid-wing, twin-engine medium bomber was appreciated for its ability to withstand damage, ensuring that it could return safely with its crew even after heavy attacks. Known as the “Havoc,” it could deliver significant offensive power. Although it was initially designed to be a light bomber, the A-20 often took on roles similar to a fighter plane. It was also used for night operations and reconnaissance missions.

The development of this bomber began in the mid-1930s, with production starting in 1938. At that time, the U.S. couldn’t openly support allies like Britain or France. Still, French Air Force officials saw the value in the aircraft and ordered the first 107 units, known as DB-7s. These planes were shipped to Casablanca and reached France just in time for the German invasion in the spring of 1940.

The DB-7s were actively used in numerous sorties against German forces but were later moved to North Africa before France was overtaken. Under Vichy French control initially, these planes were later used by Free French forces as trainers. Some even saw action against German troops in occupied France near the end of the war. The Royal Air Force took over many DB-7s that were ordered by France and Belgium, naming them “Boston.” These planes were first used as day bombers targeting German positions in North Africa and Europe. However, they proved unsuitable for this purpose and were later adapted for night missions.

The Role and Capabilities of the A-20 Havoc in WWII

When the United States joined the war, the A-20 Havoc was adapted for the U.S. Army Air Corps and served in all theaters of the conflict. More than half of the total DB-7/A-20s produced were supplied to America’s allies, with a significant number shipped to the Soviet Union.

The A-20 was powered by two Wright R-2600 engines, each providing 1,600 horsepower. This enabled the aircraft to reach a maximum speed of 317 miles per hour, with a cruising speed of around 230 miles per hour. Its operational range was 1,025 miles, and it could reach altitudes up to 25,000 feet. The bomber could carry up to two tons of bombs and had a standard crew of three.

The armament of the A-20 varied, but the most common setup included six fixed forward-firing .50 caliber Browning machine guns in the nose. Additionally, there were twin .50 caliber guns in the dorsal turret and another .50 caliber gun mounted behind the bomb bay. This heavy armament enabled the A-20 to cause significant damage to enemy targets.