Stinson L-1 Vigilant

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Note: the above picture of the float version was the L-1F ambulance conversion (5 examples made).
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 Though later superceded by the more lightweight Grasshopper aircraft, L-1s saw widespread use in both the European and Pacific theatres.

Additional information on this aircraft can be found at Wikipedia here.
(updated February 2009)


Stinson L-1 Vigilant

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)
        Wing area:      329 sq. ft (30.56 sq. m)
        Empty Weight:   2670 lb (1211 kg)
        Max Weight:     3400 lb (1542 kg) max at takeoff

Propulsion:
        No. of Engines: 1
        Powerplant:     Lycoming R-680-9 radial
        Horsepower:     295 hp

Performance:
        Range:          280 miles (451 km)
        Cruise Speed:   N/A
        Max Speed:      122 mph ( 196 km/h)
        Ceiling:        12,800 ft (3900 m)

(go to Stinson page)