T-2C "Buckeye"

The T-2C is used for intermediate and advanced training for Navy and Marine Corps pilots and Naval Flight Officers in training for jet carrier aviation and tactical strike missions. Designed in the mid 1950's to use proven technologies wherever possible, it shares its wing with the FJ-1 Fury, one of the Navy's earliest jet fighters. The tandem cockpit arrangement and slightly elevated rear cockpit gives the instructor good forward visibility over the student. Both cockpits are equipped with zero-level ejection seats. For armament training, the aircraft is equipped with underwing strong points to carry bombs, rockets or gun pods, as well as an arresting hook for carrier landings. Originally designed with a single engine, the T-2C variant, which entered fleet service in 1968, has two. Most T-2Cs have been replaced by the T-45 Goshawk. Some, however, remain in service around the fleet in various roles, as well as at the Naval Test Pilots School at NAS Patuxent River, Maryland.

This aircraft is on loan from the Naval Aviation Museum.

Specifications

Crew:

Two

Engine:

Two General Electric J85-GE-4 turbojets; 2,950 lbs thrust each

Wingspan:

38 ft 2 in

Length:

38 ft 8 in

Height:

14 ft 9 in

Weight:

13,180 lbs max, 8,115 lbs empty

Speed:

521 mph

Range:

910 miles

Service Ceiling:

44,400 ft

Armament:

Provision for gun pods, bombs or rockets under wings.