Strategy, Tactical, Leadership, and Technology

The XBT-2, initially a modified production Northrop BT-1 airframe, later redesignated as the XBT-2 and further adapted by Douglas into the XSBD-1 prototype, marks the inception of a notable series. The SBD series unfolds with the SBD-1, a Marine Corps variant devoid of self-sealing fuel tanks, resulting in 57 units. Following suit, the SBD-1P emerges as a reconnaissance aircraft converted from SBD-1s. The SBD-2, tailored for the Navy, incorporates increased fuel capacity and altered armament, albeit without self-sealing fuel tanks; 87 are constructed. Parallelly, the SBD-2P serves as a reconnaissance counterpart, converted from SBD-2s. Evolution continues with the SBD-3, commencing production in early 1941 and featuring enhanced protection, self-sealing fuel tanks, and four machine guns, totaling 584 units. The SBD-4 introduces a 24-volt electrical system, a new propeller, and upgraded fuel pumps, culminating in 780 units. Transitioning to the SBD-5, produced primarily at the Douglas Aircraft plant in Tulsa, Oklahoma, it boasts a 1,200-hp engine, increased ammunition supply, and sees diverse combat roles, including service with the Royal New Zealand Air Force and Free French Air Force. The SBD-5A, akin to the A-24B, is delivered to the USMC, amounting to 60 units. The SBD-6, the final iteration, incorporates further enhancements, such as a 1,350 hp engine, concluding production with 450 units in the summer of 1944. The A-24 Banshee variants, mirroring their SBD counterparts, play a crucial role in the USAAF, with the A-24A and A-24B witnessing a production of 170 and 615 units, respectively.