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Grumann
C2a Greyhound |
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The C-2A Greyhound is a
twin-engine cargo aircraft, designed to land on aircraft
carriers. It provides critical logistics
support. Its primary mission is carrier
on-board delivery. Powered by two T-6
turboprop engines, the C-2A can deliver a payload of up to
10,000 pounds. The cabin can readily accommodate cargo,
passengers or both. It is also equipped to accept litter
patients in medical evacuation missions. Priority cargo such
as jet engines can be transported from shore to ship in a matter
of hours. A cage system or transport stand provides cargo
restraint for loads during carrier launch or landing. The large
aft cargo ramp and door and a powered winch allow straight-in
rear cargo loading and downloading for fast turnaround. The C-2A's open-ramp
flight capability allows airdrop of supplies and personnel from
a carrier-launched aircraft. This, plus its folding wings and an
on-board auxiliary power unit for engine starting and ground
power self-sufficiency in remote areas provide an operational
versatility found in no other cargo aircraft.
The first
of two prototypes flew in 1964 and production began the
following year. The original C-2A aircraft were overhauled to
extend their operational life in 1973. In 1984, a contract was
awarded for 39 new C-2A aircraft to replace earlier the
airframes. Dubbed the C-2A due to the similarity to
the original, the new aircraft include substantial improvements
in airframe and avionic systems. All the older C-2As were phased
out in 1987, and the last of the new models was delivered in
1990. During the period November 1985 to February 1987, VR-24,
operating with seven C-2As, demonstrated exceptional
operational readiness while delivering two million pounds of
cargo, two million pounds of mail and 14,000 passengers in
support of the European and Mediterranean theatres. The C-2A
also provided support to the carrier battle groups during
operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, as well as during the
recent operations in Kosovo.
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C-2A Greyhound
Standard Series. 1/48th scale. 21" wingspan x
14.85" long.
No. AFP7D-ST. Only $139.95 |
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