BT-32 Condor II • wp.archivoaereo.com

Table of Contents

Development and Origins

The BT-32 Condor II was a medium bomber developed by the American firm Curtiss. Its design was based on the Curtiss T-32 Condor II transport aircraft, also known as the Curtiss-Wright CW-4. A total of eight bomber units were built, utilizing the AT-32 aircraft as their foundation.

Capabilities and Armament

The defensive armament of the BT-32 Condor II consisted of five manually operated turret machine guns. These were strategically positioned in the nose, upper and lower rear sections of the fuselage, and in lateral firing positions. For offensive capabilities, it could carry a bomb load of up to 762 kilograms.

The bomb load was accommodated in both the fuselage bomb bay and on underwing hardpoints. This setup provided considerable flexibility for various medium-bombing missions.

International Operators

The prototype aircraft (c/n 52) of the BT-32 Condor II was sold to China. Subsequently, three floatplane versions (c/n 54-56) were supplied to Colombia. The remaining four units (c/n 59-62) were acquired by the Peruvian Air Force, where they were designated OB-11A/OB-11D.

Technical Specifications

Modification	BT-32
Wingspan, m	24.99
Length, m	15.09
Height, m	4.98
Wing area, m2	118.54
Empty weight	5095
Normal takeoff weight	7938
Engine type	2 Piston engines Wright R-1820-23 Cyclon
Power, hp	2 x 710
Maximum speed, km/h	283
Cruising speed, km/h	212
Practical range, km	1352
Service ceiling, m	6705
Crew	3 crew
Armament	five 7.62-mm turret machine guns, up to 762 kg of bomb load.