Tá Cessna AT-17 Bobcat byl dvoumotorový pokročilý cvičný letoun navržený a vyrobený ve Spojených státech a používaný během druhé světové války k překlenutí mezery mezi jednomotorovými trenažéry a dvoumotorovými bojovými letadly. AT-17 byl poháněn dvěma radiálními motory Jacobs R-755-9. Komerční verzí byl Model T-50, ze kterého byl vyvinut AT-17.
The Cessna AT-17 Bobcat, originally a civilian utility aircraft known as the **Cessna T-50**, was rapidly adapted for military use as an advanced multi-engine trainer during World War II. Its primary role was to teach U.S. and Commonwealth pilots the complex procedures required to fly twin-engine aircraft, preparing them for roles in bombers and transports like the B-25 Mitchell or the C-47 Skytrain. Due to its wooden construction and reliance on readily available components, the Bobcat was simple to manufacture quickly in large numbers. Despite a reputation for being somewhat difficult to handle on the ground, it was a vital component of the Allied pilot training pipeline.
Engines: 2 x Jacobs R-755-9 seven-cylinder air-cooled radial engines.
Power Output: 245 hp (183 kW) each.
Maximum Speed: 306 km/h (190 mph; 165 knots).
Cruise Speed: 257 km/h (160 mph; 139 knots).
Construction Material: The aircraft featured a steel-tube fuselage covered in fabric, with wings constructed primarily of wood.
Service and Legacy
Primary Operator: United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) and Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF – known as the Crane I or II).
Total Production: Over 5,400 T-50s/Bobcats were produced during the war years, highlighting the high demand for multi-engine training.
Fictional Fame: The Cessna T-50 gained wide recognition as the aircraft flown by the fictional characters Sky King and his nephew Clipper in the popular television show of the 1950s.
Post-War: Many Bobcats were sold off as surplus and were popular as low-cost private and light transport aircraft in the immediate post-war period.
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