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SNJ



SNJ
The naval version of the famed Texan series of primary pilot trainers, the SNJ, entered service with the Fleet in 1938 and formed the backbone of basic flight training for the Navy for almost twenty years. Featuring a retractable tailhook, the SNJ was used not only for carrier qualification training, but after World War II, carriers like the Midway employed them in utility duties.

This aircraft displays markings used by aircraft flying from Naval Auxiliary Air Station Barin Field near Mobile, Alabama in 1947. During World War II, the station was dubbed "Bloody Barin" for its leading casualty rate amongst its fledgling pilots. This particular aircraft in private ownership had a cameo in the film "Swing Shift" in 1984.


SNJ Texan SNJ Texan SNJ Texan