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L-1 Vigilant

Country United States Manufacturer Stinson Aircraft Company Primary Role Other Maiden Flight 15 July 1940

Contributor: C. Peter Chen

ww2dbaseThe Vigilant aircraft was designed in response to the 1938 United States Air Corps request for a new two-seat light observation aircraft design. The prototype aircraft, which took flight on 15 Jul 1940, was designated YO-49 during the evaluation period and O-49 upon acceptance. During the war, Vigilant aircraft operated as an artillery observation aircraft, towed gliders, and transported passengers and supplies. In Apr 1942, the US Army gave the O-49 Vigilant aircraft a new designation, L-1 Vigilant. They were made obsolete in 1942 upon the arrival of newer designs.

ww2dbaseA small number of these aircraft were operated by the British Royal Air Force; they were designated Vigilant Mk I and Vigilant Mk II in British service.

ww2dbaseDuring the design's production life, 324 examples were built.

ww2dbaseSource: Wikipedia

Last Major Revision: May 2012

L-1 Vigilant Timeline

15 Jul 1940 The YO-49 Vigilant prototype aircraft took its first flight with pilot Al Schramm.

SPECIFICATIONS

L-1A



Machinery One Lycoming R-680-9 radial piston engine rated at 295hp Crew 3 Span 15.52 m Length 10.44 m Height 3.10 m Wing Area 30.60 m² Weight, Empty 1,211 kg Weight, Maximum 1,542 kg Speed, Maximum 196 km/h Service Ceiling 3,900 m Range, Normal 451 km

Photographs

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