North American T-28 Trojan

The T-28A was originally developed by North American Aviation for the Air Force to replace the T-6 Texan as a training model for future jet pilots, and flew for the first time in September of 1949. The T-28 was designed to bring the tricycle gear trainer to military service, as the new jet models would have this same equipment. Previous trainers such as the AT-6/SNJ had conventional gear and were not suited to the new transition. Other additions such as a hydraulically steerable nose wheel, armament capability, and a cockpit design similar to early jets, made the T-28 a major advancement over the T-6/SNJ.

The first model T-28A had an 800 hp 7 cylinder radial engine and was so successful that it was later developed into the T-28B, C, and D. The B model boasted an increased 1425 horsepower, and an added propeller blade. The T-28B was developed for the Navy and Marines, who both used it in training exercises into the 1980s. The C model had an added tailhook for carrier landings, along with shortened propeller blades. Both the C and D models were equipped for additions of bombs, rockets, and machine guns. The T-28D Nomad was a later model developed for the Air Force to be used in reconnaissance and counter-insurgency missions in Vietnam. Although developed as a training model, the T-28 did see action in multiple conflicts besides Vietnam, including: the Philippines, Laos, the former Belgian Congo, and Cambodia. The French Armee de l’Air also used a modified version called the T-28A Fennec during missions in Algeria.

While the T-28 does not have the reputation of some of its flashier contemporaries, the fact remains that its military service life spanned from 1950 to March 14, 1984, almost 35 years of continued service. Not bad for a trainer model! We are excited to provide AirCorps Library users with this exciting new resource on a fascinating and important trainer/warbird. Click here to link directly to Library and start browsing today! Not a Library member? Sign up for access to hundreds of thousands of parts drawings and manuals for over 50 different warbirds, bombers, trainers, and more.