Lockheed Corporation
A-29A Hudson
The Lockheed A‑29A Hudson was a twin‑engine, low‑wing transport aircraft developed in the late 1930s for the Royal Air Force. Derived from the civilian Model 14 Super Electra, the Hudson first flew in May 1938 and entered service in 1939. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney R‑1830 Twin Wasp radial engines delivering 1,200 hp each, it could carry up to 14 passengers or a cargo load of 2,000 lb, and was equipped with defensive armament of .303‑caliber machine guns in nose, dorsal and ventral positions. Its robust airframe, reliable engines and relatively short take‑off distance made it valuable for short‑range transport, patrol and light bombing missions.
During World II the Hudson proved versatile in the European and Pacific theaters. It supported the Dunkirk evacuation, conducted anti‑submarine patrols over the Atlantic, and served as a bomber and VIP transport for Allied commanders. Post‑war, surplus aircraft entered civilian service as freighters and airliners. The A‑29A Hudson’s blend of speed, payload and adaptability demonstrated the potential of twin‑engine transports, influencing later designs such as the C‑47 and contributing to the evolution of modern military and commercial aviation.
During World II the Hudson proved versatile in the European and Pacific theaters. It supported the Dunkirk evacuation, conducted anti‑submarine patrols over the Atlantic, and served as a bomber and VIP transport for Allied commanders. Post‑war, surplus aircraft entered civilian service as freighters and airliners. The A‑29A Hudson’s blend of speed, payload and adaptability demonstrated the potential of twin‑engine transports, influencing later designs such as the C‑47 and contributing to the evolution of modern military and commercial aviation.
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Classification
Production & History
- Units Produced
- 384
Design & Classification
- Manufacturer
- Lockheed Corporation
- Military Designation
- RA-29A, Hudson Mk IIIA, C-63
- Engine
- R-1830-87 Twin Wasp
- Wikidata ID
- Q18156522