Douglas SBD Dauntless Starts Her Cyclone Radial Engine

Douglas SBD Dauntless Starts Her Cyclone Radial Engine | World War Wings Videos

YouTube / CAF Media

One Of A Kind

The SBD Dauntless was the US Navy’s main carrier-based dive bomber throughout the Second World War. This phenomenal aircraft carried two airmen onboard and boasted a max speed of 255 mph and a range of almost 1,200 miles.

Most importantly, these warbirds were fitted with two Browning M2 machine guns at the engine cowling, two more Browning M1919 machine guns at the rear, and had the capability to carry more than 2,000 lbs of bombs.

In order to function properly, the Dauntless was powered by the iconic Wright R-1820-60 Cyclone radial piston engine that’s rated at 1,200 hp. If you want to see this warbird start her engine, then check out the video below.


It showcases the Commemorative Air Force’s SBD Dauntless starting up her Cyclone engine. Just prepare your headphones for this one. You don’t wanna miss hearing the sweet sound of its radial engine as it starts up!

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