This is the Curtiss SB2C Helldiver, the U.S. Navy’s carrier-based dive bomber introduced in 1943. Compared to the SBD Dauntless it replaced, the Helldiver was larger, with a 49-foot wingspan, powered by a 1,900-horsepower Wright R-2600 Twin Cyclone radial engine. Pilots used perforated dive brakes on the wings to stabilize steep 70-degree dives, rolling in from altitude, aiming, and releasing bombs at around 1,500 feet before pulling out under heavy G-forces. The aircraft’s versatility made it d

3.2K views · 97 reactions | THE CURTISS SB2C HELLDIVER REBORN. Now there are THREE airworthy Helldivers. Bravo to the CREW at National Museum of World War II Aviation, the entire Klaers family, and Jim Slattery.  What a historical moment #aircraft #airplane #warbird #aviation #pilot #aviation #museum #national #colorado #coloradosprings | Aviatress Alyssa | Facebook