Combat missions SB2C astorpedo bomber

[DavidIsby]

The Curtiss SB2C Helldiver was designed to be capable of being a torpedo bomber and was tested in this role. I am uncertain whether they were ever used as torpedo bombers in combat.

They may have done so off USS LEXINGTON in the Gilberts in 1943.

I would be grateful if anyone can identofy any sources.
thanks,
david isby

[twocee]

The SB2C was not used as a torpedo bomber during WWII. Late in the War three torpedo squadrons, VT74, VT75 and VT17, were equipped with the SB2C-5 for service aboard the three new Midway-class CVBs.

[Jukka Juutinen]

I recall encountering a USN report that praised the SB2C while scathing the TBF. Anyone with the whole report?

[DuncanM]

Originally Posted by Jukka Juutinen

I recall encountering a USN report that praised the SB2C while scathing the TBF. Anyone with the whole report?

After a torpedo bombing rapid conversion kit for the SB2C was developed there were calls to remove the TBF and use the SB2C for both torpedo and divebombing. Post war the TBF caused considerable loss of life because it was found to break apart during steep dives.

See Smith, Curtiss SB2C Helldiver, p51.

[twocee]

The TBF was not designed for dive bombing and so was restricted to glide bombing at 45-50 degrees. Even so, there were many instances of wings detaching in the course of bombing runs, both during WWII and after.