NORTH AMERICAN T-2C BUCKEYE
The T-2C is used for intermediate and advanced training for Navy and Marine Corps pilots and Naval Flight Officers in training for jet carrier aviation and tactical strike missions.
Designed in the mid 1950s to use proven technologies wherever possible, it shares its wing with the FJ-1 Fury, one of the Navy’s earliest jet fighters. The tandem cockpit arrangement and slightly elevated rear cockpit gives the instructor good forward visibility over the student.
Both cockpits are equipped with zero-level ejection seats. For armament training, the aircraft is equipped with underwing strong points to carry bombs, rockets or gun pods, as well as an arresting hook for carrier landings.
Originally designed with a single engine, the T-2C variant, which entered fleet service in 1968, has two. Most T-2Cs have been replaced by the T-45 Goshawk. Some, however, remain in service around the fleet in various roles, as well as at the Naval Test Pilots School at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland.
| SPECIFICATIONS | |
| Span: | 38′ 1.5″ ft. |
| Length: | 38′ 3″ ft. |
| Height: | 14′ 9.5″ ft. |
| Weight: | 8,115 lb – Empty 13,190 lb – Max |
| Armament: | Provisions for 3,500 Ibs of disposable stores, including light bombs, rocket-launcher pads and gun pads, carried on four external hardpoints. |
| Engines: | Two General Electric J85-GE-4 producing 2,950 lb thrust each. |
| Crew: | Two; Instructor pilot & student pilot |
| Cost: | $ |
| Tail Number: | 158583 |
| Years in Service: | 1959 – 2008 |
| Nickname: | Attack Thunder Guppy |
| PERFORMANCE | |
| Maximum Speed: | 530 mph |
| Cruising Speed: | 400 mph |
| Range: | 910 miles |
| Service Ceiling: | 45,500 feet |