Helldiver Collection

Curtiss SB2C Helldiver -early examples had a tendency to break up during recovery from a dive

Curtiss SB2C-5 Helldiver 89172
United States Navy - Curtiss SB2C-5 Helldiver 89172 (msn 89518, Curtiss Model 84G), of VT-75. Date: 1945

Curtiss SB2C-5 Helldiver N92879 (MSN 83725, ex BuAer 83589), of the Confederate Air Force, at Midland Airport on 8-10 October 1992. Date: 1992

Curtiss O2C-1 Helldiver
United States Navy - Curtiss O2C-1 Helldiver, originally designated F8C-5, as fighters, but the 63 F8C-5s were re-designated as O2C-1s as Observation aircraft, as well as 30 new-build O2c-1s

Curtiss F8C-4 Helldiver A8425 (Curtiss Model 49B) 25 production aircraft were ordered by the United States Navy, as Curtiss Model 49B F8C-4 Helldivers. Date: 1930

Curtiss XF8C-4 Helldiver A8314 (Curtiss Model 49A) The second Helldiver prototype (after the XF8C-2), at the Curtiss Buffalo factory before delivery

United States Navy - Curtiss SB2C-4 Helldiver 703 (Curtiss Model 84F) in the SW Pacific. ( The SB2C-4 is an SB2C-1c but fitted with wing racks for eight 5 in (127 mm) rockets or 1

Curtiss SB2C Helldiver -although built in large numbers, the Helldiver was never popular with it crews

Curtiss Model 84 Helldiver production at Curtiss Columbus, Ohio, plant

Curtiss Model 84 SB2C-3 Helldiver of the French navy doing a dummy deck landing

Curtiss Model 84 SB2C-3 Helldiver

Curtiss Model 84 SB2C-1 Helldiver aboard a US aircraft carrier

Curtiss Model 84 SB2C-1 Helldiver

U. S. Navy Air Force Helldiver, a cannon-firing warplane, in the Pacific Theater. Photographed August 1944
WORLD WAR II: HELLDIVER. U.S. Navy Air Force Helldiver, a cannon-firing warplane, in the Pacific Theater. Photographed August 1944

The Curtiss-Wright SBC-4 Helldiver scout bomber of the U. S. Navy during World War II
WWII: AMERICAN DIVEBOMBER. The Curtiss-Wright SBC-4 Helldiver scout bomber of the U.S. Navy during World War II

For sale as Licensed Images

Choose your image, Select your licence and Download the media

The Curtiss SB2C Helldiver, known for its early examples having a tendency to be difficult to handle, evolved into the improved Curtiss SB2C-5 Helldiver 89172. This powerful aircraft was designed for naval use and played a crucial role in World War II. One notable Curtiss SB2C-5 the 89172, which showcased enhanced performance and reliability compared to its predecessors. With its sleek design and advanced features, it became a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. Another noteworthy aircraft of this model is the N92879. Renowned for its exceptional capabilities, it proved instrumental in various missions during wartime. Its durability and firepower made it an invaluable asset for both ground attacks and aerial combat. The Curtiss SB2C-5 Helldiver N92879 stands as a testament to the success of this aircraft series. It exemplified the advancements made by Curtiss in terms of engineering and technology during that era. Its contribution to military operations cannot be overstated. Although built in large numbers, each Curtiss SB2C Helldiver possessed unique characteristics that set them apart from one another. The O2C-1 variant showcased versatility while performing reconnaissance tasks with precision. In addition to their military roles, some variants like the F8C-4 A8425 served as training platforms for aspiring pilots. These models allowed aviators-in-training to familiarize themselves with flying techniques before transitioning into more advanced aircraft. Overall, whether it was the early versions with handling challenges or later iterations boasting improved performance, each incarnation of the Curtiss SB2C Helldiver left an indelible mark on aviation history. Their legacy lives on through their contributions during times of conflict and their representation of technological progress within aerospace engineering.