T-28A Trojan

North American Aviation’s T‑28A Trojan, introduced in 1949, was the first production model of a robust, single‑engine trainer that evolved from wartime experience with the AT‑6 Texan. Designed to replace aging piston trainers, the T‑28A featured a 1,425‑hp Wright R‑1820‑C3 engine, a low‑wing monoplane layout, all‑metal construction, and a spacious tandem cockpit equipped with dual controls and instrumentation. Its retractable main gear, flaps, and aerodynamic clean design gave pilots handling characteristics that closely resembled those of frontline fighters, making the aircraft an ideal bridge from basic instruction to high‑performance combat aircraft. First delivered to the United States Air Force in 1950, the Trojan quickly entered service with the USAF, US Navy, and numerous allied air forces, where it proved versatile as a trainer, light attack platform, and utility transport. The T‑28A’s durability, flight envelope, and relatively low operating cost cemented its reputation, influencing subsequent trainer designs worldwide. Its legacy endures in the countless aviators who earned their wings on the Trojan, and the type remains a celebrated symbol of post‑war military aviation advancement. The aircraft also saw limited combat use in Korea and Vietnam, where it carried rockets for close‑air support. Restored aircraft still fly at airshows, preserving its heritage.

North American Aviation

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