Vultee Aircraft
Vultee SNV Valiant
The Vultee SNV Valiant, produced by Vultee Aircraft beginning in 1941, was a low‑wing, all‑metal advanced trainer that played a pivotal role in preparing both Navy and Army pilots for twin‑engine operations during World War II. Derived from the civilian V-1 design, the SNV incorporated a strengthened airframe, retractable landing gear and dual Pratt & Whitney R‑985 radial engines delivering 450 hp each. Its enclosed cockpit accommodated a pilot and instructor side‑by‑side, while the forward‑facing bombardier‑trainer seat allowed crew‑coordinated instruction. With a top speed of roughly 300 mph, a service ceiling of 25,000 ft and a range of 1,200 mi, the aircraft offered performance comparable to many frontline bombers, giving trainees realistic handling experience.
First entered service with the U.S. Navy as the SNV‑2 and with the U.S. Army Air Forces as the AT‑13, the Valiant saw production of over 1,300 units. Its robust design and forgiving flight characteristics made it ideal for instrument, navigation and formation‑flight training, accelerating the transition of pilots to combat aircraft. After the war, surplus SNVs were converted for liaison and light‑cargo roles, underscoring the type’s versatility and lasting impact on military aviation training programs.
First entered service with the U.S. Navy as the SNV‑2 and with the U.S. Army Air Forces as the AT‑13, the Valiant saw production of over 1,300 units. Its robust design and forgiving flight characteristics made it ideal for instrument, navigation and formation‑flight training, accelerating the transition of pilots to combat aircraft. After the war, surplus SNVs were converted for liaison and light‑cargo roles, underscoring the type’s versatility and lasting impact on military aviation training programs.
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Classification
Design & Classification
- Manufacturer
- Vultee Aircraft
- Nickname
- Valiant
- Military Designation
- SNV
- Wikidata ID
- Q133826014