North American O-47

The North American O‑47 was a three‑seat, all‑metal observation aircraft developed by North American Aviation in the mid‑1930s to meet the United States Army Air Corps’ demand for a modern reconnaissance platform. First flown on 22 August 1935, the O‑47 entered service in 1937, becoming the Army’s primary observation type throughout the pre‑World War II period. Its low‑wing monoplane configuration, retractable tailwheel undercarriage, and semi‑monocoque fuselage represented a significant technological step beyond the biplanes it replaced. Powered by a Wright R‑1820 C-1 radial engine delivering 975 hp, the O‑47 could reach 250 mph and offered a service ceiling of 22,000 ft, enabling effective photographic and artillery‑spotting missions. The aircraft featured a fully glazed forward cockpit for the pilot, a separate observer’s station with a downward‑facing camera port, and a flexible rear‑mounted defensive machine gun. Although quickly outclassed by newer fighters and light bombers once the United States entered World War II, the O‑47’s robust design and reliable performance provided valuable training and liaison duties throughout the conflict. Its development marked North American Aviation’s transition to more advanced all‑metal designs, laying groundwork for later successes such as the P‑51 Mustang.