Waco CG-4 – Photos &Videos

1. Уако CG-4A was the most widely used American troop/cargo military glider of World War II. It was designated the CG-4A by the United States Army Air Forces, and named Hadrian (after the Roman emperor) in British military service. Designed by the Waco Aircraft Company, flight testing began in May 1942, and eventually more than 13,900 CG-4As were delivered.

Източник: Уако CG-4 в Уикипедия

The Waco CG-4 was a military glider used by the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. It was designed to carry troops and equipment behind enemy lines without the need for an engine or a landing strip. The CG-4 was towed by a powered aircraft and released near the target area, where it would glide silently to a landing. The CG-4 could carry up to 13 soldiers or a jeep, a 75 mm howitzer, or other cargo.
It had a wingspan of 83 feet and a length of 48 feet. It was made of wood and fabric, with a steel-tube frame. The CG-4 was first flown in 1942 and entered service in 1943. It was used in several major operations, such as the invasion of Sicily, the Normandy landings, Operation Market Garden, and the crossing of the Rhine. More than 13,000 CG-4s were built by various manufacturers, making it the most widely used American military glider of the war.