North American T.28C Trojan

North American Aviation's goal to develop a succesful new training aircraft to replace the aging T-6 Texan (which had been in service from the late 1930’s) was realised when the Trojan entered service with the United States Air Force in the early 1960’s. After building 1,194 examples of the 'A' model, the company was later contracted to develop and build the improved 'B' and 'C' models specifically for the US Navy.

The late Brett Emeny taxis past the crowd in his Trojan for the last time at Classic Fighters Omaka 2023 airshow (Blenheim, NZ).  Photo: © Zac Yates

 Year: 1949  Built: 1,948 (266 C-models) Registration: ZK-JGS  Top Speed: 552 km/h  Wingspan: 12.22m  Height: 3.86m  Length:10.06m Engine: 1425hp Wright R-1820-86 Cyclone 9-cylinder radial Ceiling: 10,820m  Range: 1706km Armament: 6 x underwing hardpoints with a capacity of 540 kg (1,200 lb) in total 

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    • The C-model seen here was first designed in 1955 and was equipped with an arrestor (tail) hook and shortened propellor blades to make it more suitable for aircraft carrier training and operations. Full production of the Trojan ceased in 1957 with the C-model being the last production line type. From 1959 onwards the more advanced T-28D models were upgraded T-28A's.

    While primarily a trainer, the type did see active military service. T-28D's were supplied to the southern Republic Of Vietnam Air Force (RVNAF) where they saw extensive service during the Vietnam War. One Trojan was used by the North Vietnamese Air Force as its first fighter aircraft (after it had been flown north by a defector from the RVNAF.) A USAF Trojan was the first non-transport aircraft lost by the USA during the Vietnam War when it was shot down in August 1962. Over the next six years the Air Force lost more than twenty T-28's to all causes (including accidents)—a significant combat casualty rate for a type that had been developed as a training aircraft.

    PARAGRAPH

    Brett Emeny's last public display in his Trojan T.28C.

    Various Latin American countries operated the T-28 for both training and combat roles. For example, the Dominican Republic used T-28s during the Dominican Civil War in 1965. These aircraft were used for ground attack missions against insurgent positions, demonstrating the T-28's adaptability to different operational contexts.

    Waiting to takeoff prior to a display at Wings Over Wairarapa.  Photo: © Historical Aviation Film Unit

    Throughout its service life, the T-28 demonstrated a high degree of versatility, thbus serving not only as a trainer but also in combat roles in various regional conflicts. Its durability, ease of maintenance, and effective performance in diverse conditions made it a valuable asset for many air forces around the world.

    More Videos:

    • Trojan T.28C Display At Ardmore

    • Rob Sillich's Display At Ardmore


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