SB2C The Beast West Texas Wing
| SB2C Specs | |
|---|---|
| Role | Dive bomber |
| Manufacturer | Curtiss-Wright |
| Introduced | Dec 1942 |
| Produced | 1943-1945 |
| Power | 1 x Wright R-2600 radial engine with 1,900 hp |
| Length | 36 ft 9 in |
| Height | |
| Wingspan | 49 ft 9 in |
| Range | 1,012 mi |
The Curtiss SB2C Helldiver was a carrier-based dive bomber employed by the U.S. Navy during World War II. Replacing the SBD Dauntless, it offered greater range and payload, though it suffered from early design flaws. Nicknamed the "Beast" for its challenging handling, the Helldiver participated in significant Pacific battles, including Leyte Gulf and Iwo Jima. Despite receiving mixed reviews from pilots, it demonstrated effectiveness in delivering bombs with precision. Over 7,000 units were produced before it was retired in the late 1940s.
