Grumman
JOV-1A Mohawk
The Grumman JOV‑1A Mohawk was a twin‑engine, high‑wing utility aircraft developed in the early 1950s for the United States Army’s observation and liaison missions. Originating from the civilian Grumman Gulfstream I, Grumman modified the airframe with a reinforced fuselage, larger windows, and a reinforced tail‑wheel landing gear to meet military specifications. First flying in 1954, the Mohawk entered service in 1955 and quickly proved adaptable, performing photographic reconnaissance, artillery spotting, and personnel transport across varied terrain, from Europe’s temperate zones to the jungles of Southeast Asia.
Key features included two Pratt & Whitney R‑2800 radial engines delivering 2,400 horsepower total, a spacious cabin capable of seating up to six crew members or a mixed load of cargo and troops, and a robust, corrosion‑resistant aluminum structure that allowed operation from rough airstrips. The aircraft’s state‑of‑the‑art radio suite and high‑visibility windows gave pilots superior situational awareness, while its long range—approximately 1,500 nautical miles—extended operational reach without refueling.
The JOV‑1A Mohawk’s significance lies in its bridging role between civilian transport design and military utility requirements, influencing later liaison aircraft such as the C‑12 Huron. Its reliability and versatility earned it a reputation as a workhorse of the Cold‑War era, setting a benchmark for future multi‑mission platforms.
Key features included two Pratt & Whitney R‑2800 radial engines delivering 2,400 horsepower total, a spacious cabin capable of seating up to six crew members or a mixed load of cargo and troops, and a robust, corrosion‑resistant aluminum structure that allowed operation from rough airstrips. The aircraft’s state‑of‑the‑art radio suite and high‑visibility windows gave pilots superior situational awareness, while its long range—approximately 1,500 nautical miles—extended operational reach without refueling.
The JOV‑1A Mohawk’s significance lies in its bridging role between civilian transport design and military utility requirements, influencing later liaison aircraft such as the C‑12 Huron. Its reliability and versatility earned it a reputation as a workhorse of the Cold‑War era, setting a benchmark for future multi‑mission platforms.
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Classification
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 59
Design & Classification
- Primary Use
- Manufacturer
- Grumman
- Military Designation
- JOV-1A
- Wikidata ID
- Q24527177