Cessna 305 Bird Dog (L-19 / O-1) US Army Model

General Product Description

Our ReplicaHangar Cessna 305 Bird Dog (L-19 / O-1) US Army Model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 8-10 weeks from placement of order.

The Cessna 305 Bird Dog (L-19 / O-1) US Army Model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can, however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any aviation enthusiast and avid aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual aircraft.

If you require we can also make the Cessna 305 Bird Dog (L-19 / O-1) US Army Model in any other airline, private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military jet, warplane jets, propeller warplanes, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimp, dirigible, blimps, boat and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

The Cessna 305 Bird Dog, also known as L-19 and O-1, is a remarkable piece of aviation history that has left an indelible mark on military and civilian aviation alike. The Bird Dog, which made its inaugural flight in December 1949, became a pivotal asset in various military operations, providing reconnaissance, target acquisition, and artillery adjustment roles.

A Glimpse into Its Genesis

The Bird Dog was born out of a 1950 U.S. Army competition seeking a utility aircraft for liaison and observation duties. Cessna, already well known for its reliable and high-performing light aircraft, won the competition with its Model 305A design. This aircraft was a significant evolution of the pre-existing Cessna 170, a popular civilian light aircraft. Its design incorporated various modifications, such as tandem seating, transparent panels for improved visibility, and hard points under the wings for carrying light cargo or armaments.

Specifications and Performance

The Cessna 305 is a single-engined monoplane with a high-wing, fixed conventional landing gear, and tandem seating for two. It is powered by a six-cylinder Continental O-470-11 engine, offering 213 horsepower, enabling a cruising speed of around 104 knots. The Bird Dog boasts a range of approximately 530 miles, and with its service ceiling of about 20,300 feet, it can perform effectively at varying altitudes.

Notably, the Bird Dog has excellent short take-off and landing (STOL) capabilities, making it ideally suited for operations in rough and remote environments. It can operate from short, improvised airstrips, which increased its utility and appeal to military forces worldwide.

Military Roles and Contributions

The Bird Dog made significant contributions to U.S. military operations during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. In Korea, it was primarily used for reconnaissance and directing artillery fire, proving itself to be an invaluable asset on the battlefield. Its utility was further enhanced in Vietnam, where it was used for a variety of roles, including psychological warfare. One of the most famous Bird Dogs, the “Birddog FAC” (Forward Air Control), would identify enemy targets and mark them with smoke rockets for ground-attack aircraft.

Later, the Bird Dog was widely adopted by military forces around the globe. Countries like Australia, Italy, Japan, and many others integrated this aircraft into their military aviation, valuing its versatility, dependability, and performance.

Civilian Use and Legacy

With its military service phasing out towards the end of the 20th century, many Bird Dogs found their way into civilian hands. Today, they are a popular choice among private owners and aviation enthusiasts for their ruggedness, simplicity, and excellent flight characteristics. Moreover, they have found roles in various civilian applications like bush flying, glider towing, and banner towing.

The legacy of the Cessna 305 Bird Dog lives on even decades after its conception. Its impact on post-war light aviation is unequivocal, shaping the characteristics of military observation and liaison aircraft for years to come. Today, the Bird Dog remains not just a nostalgic relic, but an actively flown testament to the innovative and practical design prowess of Cessna.