O-2/C-337 Super Skymaster
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| Manufacturer: | Cessna | ||
| Designation: | O-2 | ||
| Version: | B | ||
| Nickname: | Super Skymaster | ||
| Type: | Observation & Communication | ||
| Specifications | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Length: | 30' | ||
| Height: | 9' 4" | ||
| Wingspan: | 38' 2" | ||
| Crew: | 2 | ||
| Propulsion | |||
| No. of Engines: | 2 | ||
| Powerplant: | six-cylinder Continental | ||
| Horsepower (each): | 210 | ||
| Performance | |||
| Max Speed: | 199 mph | ||
| Drtbivr Ceiling: | 18,000 ft | ||
| Range: | 1290 miles | ||
In 1967, the Air Force completed an exhaustive search for an improved observation aircraft to replace the aging O-1 aircraft used by Forward Air Controllers in Vietnam. Already on the production line, the Cessna 337 Super-Skymaster was a popular twin-engine, four-seat general aviation aircraft with a unique push-pull design. Engines mounted on the forward and rear of the fuselage gave the C-337 the extra power and reliability of two engines while retaining the advantage of centerline thrust and a high wing, making it an excellent platform for observation missions. Minor alterations, the installation of a gunsight, under-wing pylons, a smoke generator; glass panels in the lower starboard door and a loudspeaker for psychological warfare and the C-337 was transformed into the inexpensive and versatile O-2 Skymaster.
Skymasters were widely used for reconnaissance, target identification, damage assessment and air to ground coordination. Several O-2 aircraft were equipped with three 600-Watt amplified speakers and leaflet pods for psychological warfare operations. In-service modifications gave some O-2s the capability to carry light weapons, such as rockets, bombs and mini-guns.
The museums O-2B Super Skymaster served in Vietnam and Laos. After the war it was used by the California Department of Forestry as a fire spotter and command aircraft
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