O2U-4 Corsair

The Vought O2U‑4 Corsair was the final and most refined version of the company’s celebrated O2U series of biplane scout‑bombers that first flew in 1927. Developed for the United States Navy and Marine Corps, the O2U‑4 entered service in 1930 and remained in operational use through the early years of World War II. Powered by a 450‑horsepower Pratt & Whitney R‑1340‑W radial engine, the aircraft offered a top speed of about 170 mph, a service ceiling of 18 000 ft and a range exceeding 600 mi, making it one of the most capable observation platforms of its era. Its rugged welded‑steel tube fuselage, fabric‑covered wings and interchangeable undercarriage allowed rapid conversion between land‑plane, seaplane and amphibious configurations, a versatility prized by naval units operating from ships and remote airfields. Armed with a forward‑firing .30‑caliber machine gun, a rear flexible gun and optional bomb racks, the O2U‑4 could perform reconnaissance, artillery spotting, light attack and anti‑submarine duties. The type’s reliability, ease of maintenance and multi‑role flexibility helped define early carrier‑borne aviation doctrine and paved the way for later Vought designs such as the famed F4U Corsair fighter.