Brewster SB2A Buccaneer

[Bill Walker]

Serials FF419 to FG268 were allocated (750 aircraft), but deliveries to the UK stopped after FF633 (just over 200). Most were converted to target tugs. The RCAF received 3 in January and June 1943 (FF568, FF718 and FF732). They were used briefly for trials, including target towing, but were apparently unpopular. All 3 were instructional airframes or stored by January 1944.

It is important to note that in 1943 the RCAF was desperate for warplanes for the Home War Establishment, because of the fear of more Japanese operations against North America. The fact that they turned down Bermudas may say something about the aircraft's quality and utility.

I suspect the aircraft were ordered by the British "off the drawing board", with the intent of finding something for them to do when they arrived. Clearly, no great use was found.

[Muscateer]

Thanks very much, Mr. Walker!
Even 200 is hard to conceal!
I remember all the air cadet (ATC) squadrons were given redundant airframes for encouragement but these were usually Wapitis or some other
thirties biplane. I never saw anything like a Buccaneer! No doubt the 200
went into Technical Squadrons as instructional airframes. Strange how an
almost identical aircraft, the Vultee Vengeance, was such a success.
Rgds, Muscateer.