Stinson L-1 Vigillant

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In 1940 the U.S. Army realized the need to reinforce its aircraft types in the two-seat light observation category. A number of aircraft companies received contracts, including Stinson, which was contracted to produce 142 examples of a braced high-wing monoplane designated the O-49. The O-49s and 182 O-49As were later redesignated as L-1s and L-1As in 1942. Examples were also made available to the British via Lend-Lease, with the RAF naming them "Vigilant". Later examples of the L-1 included ambulance and float versions. Though later superceded by the more lightweight Grasshopper aircraft, L-1s saw widespread use in both the European and Pacific theatres.

Type: liason/observation aircraft

Crew: 2

Armament: none

Specifications:

Length: 34' 3" (10.44 m)

Height: 10' 2" (3.10 m)

Wingspan: 50' 11" (15.52 m)

Weight: 3400 lb (1542 kg) max at takeoff

Propulsion:

Engines: 1

Powerplant: Lycoming R-680-9 radial

295 hp

Performance:

Range: 280 miles (451 km)

Speed: 122 mph ( 196 km/h)

Ceiling: 12,800 ft (3900 m)


	Classic Combat Aircraft \| home Stinson L-1 Vigillant In 1940 the U.S. Army realized the need to reinforce its aircraft types in the two-seat light observation category. A number of aircraft companies received contracts, including Stinson, which was contracted to produce 142 examples of a braced high-wing monoplane designated the O-49. The O-49s and 182 O-49As were later redesignated as L-1s and L-1As in 1942. Examples were also made available to the British via Lend-Lease, with the RAF naming them "Vigilant". Later examples of the L-1 included ambulance and float versions. Though later superceded by the more lightweight Grasshopper aircraft, L-1s saw widespread use in both the European and Pacific theatres. Type: liason/observation aircraft Crew: 2 Armament: none Specifications: Length: 34' 3" (10.44 m) Height: 10' 2" (3.10 m) Wingspan: 50' 11" (15.52 m) Weight: 3400 lb (1542 kg) max at takeoff Propulsion: Engines: 1 Powerplant: Lycoming R-680-9 radial 295 hp Performance: Range: 280 miles (451 km) Speed: 122 mph ( 196 km/h) Ceiling: 12,800 ft (3900 m)