North American Aviation
NA-16-5
The North American NA‑16‑5 was an early variant of the NA‑16 family, a low‑wing, single‑engine trainer produced by North American Aviation in the late 1930s. Developed from the original NA‑16 prototype first flown in 1935, the –5 model incorporated a more powerful 450‑horsepower Pratt & Whitney R‑985 radial engine, a strengthened airframe and revised cockpit instrumentation to meet the training requirements of both the United States Army Air Corps and foreign customers. Its all‑metal construction, retractable‑gear system and generous wing area gave novice pilots stable handling while still allowing advanced maneuvers such as spins and aerobatics. The NA‑16‑5 also featured dual controls, a sliding canopy, and interchangeable hard‑point mounts that could carry light armament for weapons‑training. Although only a limited number were built before World II, the aircraft served as a direct precursor to the legendary T‑6 Texan, influencing its design and production philosophy. Several export contracts placed the type in the air forces of Brazil, China and the Philippines, where it proved valuable for establishing basic flight schools. The NA‑16‑5’s blend of simplicity, durability and performance helped establish the modern military trainer concept and laid the groundwork for post‑war pilot training programs worldwide.
Classification
Production & History
- First Flight
- 1940
Design & Classification
- Primary Use
- Manufacturer
- North American Aviation
- Wikidata ID
- Q3040492