The Vultee BT-13 Valiant was a two-seat, trainer aircraft used by the US Army Air Forces during World War II. Developed from the BC-3, the prototype, the Model 74, first flew in March 1939. It was the most prolific basic trainer of this period, entering service in June 1940.
The main production variant was the BT-13A, with 6,407 aircraft built. It was powered by one Pratt & Whitney R-985 AN-1, 9-cylinder, air-cooled radial engine, which produced 450 horsepower. This version was followed by the BT-15, which was equipped with one 450-HP, Wright R-975-11 Whirlwind-9 radial engine. Although it was a reliable and easy-to-fly aircraft, both versions were quickly retired after the war.
Technical Characteristics
The Vultee BT-13 Valiant was a two-seat, single-engine monoplane. It had an all-metal structure, with cantilever low wing, with all control surfaces being fabric-covered. The landing gear featured oleo-pneumatic shock struts, a steerable tailwheel, and hydraulic brakes. The cockpit provided accommodation for a crew of two, who were seated in tandem beneath a continuous transparent canopy.
Specifications
Type: basic trainer
Length: 8.79 m (28 ft, 10 inch)
Wing Span: 12.80 m (42 ft)
Wing Area: 22.20 m2 (239 sq. ft)
Height: 3.51 m (11 ft, 6-inch)
Powerplant: one Pratt & Whiney R-985 AN-1, 9-cylinder radial engine.
Maximum Speed: 290 km/h (180 mph)
Service Ceiling: 6,600 m (21,650 feet)
Range: 1,167 km (725 miles)
Crew: 2
Below, the Vultee BT-13 Valiant flying over the sky of Colorado in 1942.
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