AL ZIEG MEMORIAL COLLECTION
No. 13901. Douglas DB-7 BD-2 Havoc US Marine Corps
Photograph from USN
Aeroplane Photo Supply (APS) Photo No. 1957

Douglas DB-7 BD-2 Havoc

Remarks by Johan Visschedijk: "Of the 7,478 Douglas DB-7 aircraft built in several versions, only nine served with the US Navy and Marine Corps under the designations BD-1 Havoc (BuNo 4251) and BD-2 Havoc (BuNo 7035 to 7042).

The BD-1 was originally ordered by the USAAC as a DB-7 A-20-DO attack bomber under the serial 39-741. On the El Segundo, California production line it was converted into the prototype XF-3 photographic reconnaissance aircraft. After trials with the USAAC the aircraft was transferred to the USN on December 9, 1940 and with all photographic equipment and armament removed, it was used for target towing and general utility work. In May 1943 it was placed in storage, it was struck off charge on March 8, 1944 and subsequently it was scrapped.

The BD-2s were originally ordered by the USAAC as DB-7 A-20B-DL attack bombers under the USAAC serials 41-2771 to 41-2778 (c/n 5101 to 5108). Built at Long Beach, these aircraft were transferred factory fresh to the USN. Void of armament, these aircraft were also used for target towing and general utility work by USN and USMC units from 1942 to late 1944."


Created January 31, 2021