Why The Torpecker Was The Worst US Airplane of WW2

When the Douglas TBD Devastator was introduced in 1937, it was hailed as a modern marvel for the United States Navy. At the time, biplanes were still common, and the Devastator’s all-metal monoplane design, fully enclosed cockpit, and retractable landing gear marked a major leap forward. But as the pace of aviation technology advanced rapidly, the aircraft that had once represented innovation became an obsolete relic by the time the United States entered World War II. The shortcomings of the Devastator, often nicknamed the “Torpecker,” would be highlighted during crucial naval battles in the Pacific, where its flaws became impossible to ignore.

A Promising Start

The TBD Devastator’s initial specifications were impressive for the mid-1930s. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney R-1830-64 Twin Wasp radial engine, it delivered 850 horsepower and could reach a top speed of 206 miles per hour with a range of 435 miles. The aircraft’s dimensions allowed it to accommodate a crew of three: a pilot, a bombardier who doubled as a radio operator, and a rear gunner. Its armament consisted of a forward-firing .30 caliber machine gun and a rear defensive gun, along with a bomb bay capable of carrying a single Mark 13 torpedo or up to 1,200 pounds of bombs.

Initially, the Devastator’s features were revolutionary. The folding wings made it easier to store on aircraft carriers, while the enclosed cockpit provided protection and comfort for the crew. These attributes, combined with its sleek design, positioned the TBD as a cornerstone of naval aviation in the late 1930s. However, these innovations quickly became outdated as aircraft technology advanced.

Weaknesses Become Apparent

By the time World War II erupted, the Devastator’s limitations were glaring. With a maximum speed of 206 miles per hour, it was significantly slower than the Japanese Mitsubishi A6M Zero, which could reach over 330 miles per hour. The aircraft’s maneuverability also lagged behind its counterparts, making it an easy target for enemy fighters.

Another critical weakness was its lack of modern protective features. The TBD lacked armor plating to shield its crew from enemy fire and was not equipped with self-sealing fuel tanks, making it highly vulnerable to incendiary rounds. These deficiencies rendered it unsuitable for the high-stakes combat environments of World War II.

The Devastator’s primary weapon, the Mark 13 torpedo, was also plagued with reliability issues. To function correctly, the torpedo had to be dropped at speeds below 150 miles per hour and from an altitude no higher than 120 feet. These requirements forced the aircraft into dangerously slow and low attack runs, exposing it to intense anti-aircraft fire and enemy fighters. Even when dropped under ideal conditions, the Mark 13 torpedo often failed to detonate or missed its target entirely.

Combat Performance

The Devastator saw its first combat action in early 1942, following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. During missions in the Gilbert Islands and other early operations, the aircraft’s vulnerabilities became apparent. Pilots struggled with the unreliable Mark 13 torpedo, and the TBD’s slow speed made it an easy target for Japanese aircraft and anti-aircraft defenses. Losses were high, and the aircraft’s effectiveness was called into question.

The Battle of the Coral Sea in May 1942 marked one of the Devastator’s most notable appearances. During an attack on the Japanese light carrier Shoho, the Devastators, alongside SBD Dauntless dive bombers, played a role in sinking the vessel. However, the operation highlighted the aircraft’s vulnerabilities. The TBDs flew slow, low-altitude attack runs, making them easy targets for enemy fire. While some torpedoes found their mark, many failed to detonate, underscoring the weapon’s unreliability. Despite contributing to the sinking of Shoho, the cost in aircraft and lives was significant.

The Battle of Midway in June 1942 would cement the Devastator’s reputation as a deeply flawed aircraft. Torpedo Squadron 8 (VT-8) from USS Hornet launched an attack against the Japanese fleet. Flying without fighter escort, the TBDs made their approach against a heavily defended formation of Japanese carriers. Outdated and outclassed, all 15 aircraft were shot down, and only one crewman survived. The squadron’s sacrifice was not in vain, as their attack distracted Japanese defenses, paving the way for American dive bombers to strike a decisive blow. However, the devastating losses underscored the urgent need to replace the TBD.

Replacement and Legacy

Even before the United States entered the war, the Navy recognized the Devastator’s obsolescence. In 1939, the Bureau of Aeronautics initiated a competition to develop a new torpedo bomber. The result was the Grumman TBF Avenger, which entered service in 1942 and quickly supplanted the TBD. The Avenger featured improved speed, better protection for its crew, and a more reliable torpedo system, addressing many of the flaws that had plagued its predecessor.