During World War II, Douglas SBD-3 Dauntless served as the U.S. Navy's principal carrier based scout bomber aircraft from 1940 until 1944, as it offered impressive flying and range attributes along with exceptional weaponry. Powered by Wright R-1820-52, 1,000 hp engine giving the top speed: 250 mph (402 km/p). Range: 1,345 mi (2,164.5 km) with bombs; 1,580 mi (2,543 km) scouting.It proved to be the Navy's most potent offensive weapon of WW II, accounting for the destruction of more Japanese naval tonnage than all other Navy assets combined.
One of three combat veteran aircraft on display at the Air Zoo, the Douglas SBD-3 (BuNo 06624), was piloted by Lieutenant John M. DeVane, Jr. in November 1942 and participated in the Mediterranean during Operation Torch.