Cessna O-2A Skymaster
by Arthur Eggers
Title
Cessna O-2A Skymaster
Artist
Arthur Eggers
Medium
Digital Art - Color Print
Description
The O-2 Skymaster is a military version of the Cessna 337 Super Skymaster utilized as an observation and forward air control (FAC) aircraft. The United States Air Force commissioned Cessna to build a military variant to replace the O-1 Bird Dog in 1966. During the Vietnam War, the Skymaster was intended to be replaced in the forward air control (FAC) mission by the OV-10 Bronco, but the O-2A maintained a night mission role. The first O-2 flew in January 1967 and the plane went into production shortly thereafter, with the USAF taking delivery in March 1967. The O-2A served as a FAC aircraft with the 20th Tactical Air Support Squadron, while the O-2B was equipped with loudspeakers and a leaflet dispenser for use in the psychological operations (PSYOPS) role. Following the Vietnam War, the O-2 continued to operate with both U.S. Air Force and Air National Guard units well into the late 1980s. When I considered the time I spent in the O-2, it was something of a surprise to me to conclude that it was, from my perspective, a really "neat" aircraft. (My perspective being from the right seat, as an observer, on forward aircraft controller missions in Vietnam). Surprising,especially, remembering that I was nauseated/airsick more than once, during daylight missions. This was, of course, primarily dependent on how much and how violently the driver "juked" and jerked when making a run in on a target. (This was only important to those who had some interest in longevity.) But, the aircraft, it seems to me, was well suited/chosen for that mission. It had excellent visibility, forward and both sides, and was comfortably roomy, with easy entry and exit. For the observer, it provided a stable platform for use of binoculars by day and starlight scope by night. And as for noise level, that was certainly not a problem. Again, as a non-pilot, it seemed to me to be a "fun" aircraft to fly; good maneuverability, speedy with good climb rate, and with it's own very distinctive sound. (Most anyone who has heard the Skymaster a few times will remember it always.) Quite a step up from the O-1 Birddog, which I flew in, just for the "experience". And, along with flying in a good bird, I got to meet some fine people, as one would expect in the USAF!
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October 31st, 2014
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