Cessna A-37 Dragonfly
The Basics: In 1962, the US Air Force’s Special Air Warfare Center decided to evaluate the T-37 trainer as a future Counter-Insurgency (COIN) light attack aircraft. The aircraft were loaded to a takeoff weight of 8,700 pounds, almost 33% above their normal maximum, and were understandably found to be somewhat lacking in performance. Subsequently, each aircraft was modified with a pair of 2,400-lb thrust General Electric J85-GE-5 turbojets, and were designated YAT-37Ds. Flight testing showed that the new aircraft could be safely flown at weights up to 14,000 pounds, which allowed for the carriage of a wide variety of weapons. Nothing became of the project until 1966, when the US Air Force’s involvement in Vietnam highlighted the need for a light strike-fighter. Cessna was contracted to convert 39 T-37B trainers procured from the boneyard at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base. Delivery of the new aircraft, now called the A-37A Dragonfly, began in May 1967.
Meanwhile, Cessna had built a prototype called the Model 318E which, while based on the T-37, had significant differences. Its airframe was stressed for 6 Gs, the fuel load was increased to 507 US gallons (1920 liters) plus 400 more gallons (1516 liters) in four underwing auxiliary tanks, and it had air-refueling capability. The aircraft was predictably re-designated the A-37B and, like the A-model, had a 7.62-mm Gattling Minigun in the nose, gun cameras, and armor protection for the pilots.
Specifications
(A-37B):
Engines: Two 2,850-lb thrust General Electric J85-GE-17A turbojets
Weight: Empty 6,210 lbs., Max Takeoff 14,000 lbs.
Wing Span: 35ft. 10.5in.
Length: 28ft. 3.25in.
Height: 8ft. 10.5in.
Performance:
Maximum Speed at 16,000 ft: 525 mph
Maximum Cruising Speed at 25,000: 489 mph
Range: 1010 miles (460 miles with 4,100 lb. external weapon load)
Number Built:
A-37B: 577;
A-37A: 39
Number Still Airworthy: 5 in private ownership.
Key Benefits
- Benefit 1
- Benefit 2
- Benefit 3