North American T-28 'Fennec', Old Warden 2007 ©Nigel Key
ROLE
Trainer / Light Attack Aircraft.
FIRST FLIGHT
26 September 1949.
The North American T-28 Trojan was derived from the prototype XT-28 and was designed to replace the T-6 Texan.
In June 1950, the T-28A was sent to Eglin Air Force Base for testing as an advanced trainer by the 3200th Fighter Test Squadron.
The T-28A was fitted with a Wright R-1300 Cyclone engine, producing 800 hp, fitted with a two-bladed propeller.
In 1952, the US Navy requested modifications including an improved engine, producing 1,425 hp fitted with a three-bladed propeller and an airbrake fitted on the belly, the aircraft was then designated T-28B.
After successful trials, the T-28 is fitted with an arrester hook so that it can be used for carrier landing training with the US Navy, the aircraft then being designated T-28C.
A number of T-28A aircraft were modified by installing the T-28B engine with a three-blade propeller, weapon anchor points under the wings and armour for protecting the crew, the aircraft then designated the ‘Fennec’.
PRODUCTION
The North American T-28 Trojan was produced from 1950 to 1957, with 1,948 built.
ENGINE
Wright R-1820-86 Cyclone, producing 1,425 hp.
Press play to hear the T-28
ARMAMENT
4,000 lb (1,814 kg) Bomb/Rocket/Gun pod load.
The T-28 was adopted as the primary trainer by the USAF, USN and Marine Corps until it was phased out as a trainer in the early 1960’s.
The T-28 was used by the Republic of Vietnam Air Force supporting Army ground operations during the Vietnam War.
Crew - 1 or 2 (in tandem) |
Length - 32ft 10in (10m) |
Wingspan - 40ft 0in (12.19m) |
Height - 12ft 8in (8.36m) |
Empty Weight - 7,750lb (3,515kg) |
Max. Weight - 15,600lb (7,075kg) |
Max. Speed - 346 mph (554 km/h) |
Range - 1,060 miles (1,706km) |