Originally posted by udet
hmm I thought Navy was more partial to the T34 Mentor.
North American's T-28A was the replacement trainer for the USAAF (replaced the AT-6 circa 1951). When it was adopted by the Navy, they specified replacement of the 800 hp R-1300 engine with the R-1820-86 making 1,425 hp. Suddenly this "basic trainer" had some real performance. Designated the T-28B, it was about 900 lbs lighter than the P-51D, with greater wing area, and excellent initial climb from sea level. In terms of maneuverability, it could fly circles around the Mustang. Not long after, a tail hook was added for simulated carrier landings using field arresting gear. this model was designated the T-28C. Later in their service lives, a few T-28s were upgraded to the 1,525 hp R-1820-82WA engine.
One cannot determine if the T-28 in the photo is a B or C model due to the fence obscuring a clear view of the lower tail area.
Many T-28s were surplused for sale to civilians. Others were sold to foreign air forces where some remain in service today.
Max speed is about 345 mph, initial climb rate is 3,540 fpm with max fuel. 1,525 hp T-28s (only about 20 were upgraded) topped 3,650 fpm.
If you can snag a ride in a T-28B or C, it'll be a lot closer to warbird performance than an AT-6 or SNJ.
My regards,
Widewing