C-7A  Caribou

The C-7A is a twin-engine, short takeoff and landing (STOL) utility transport built by DeHavilland Aircraft of Canada, Ltd.   It is used primarily for tactical airlift missions in forward battle areas with short, unimproved airstrips.   It can carry 26 fully equipped paratroops or up to 20 litter patients.   As a cargo aircraft the Caribou can haul more than three tons of equipment.
The Caribou made its first flight in 1958.   In 1959, the Army flew several prototypes for evaluation and, in 1961, the first 22 out of a total of 159 production versions were delivered to the Army.   Originally designated AC-1, the aircraft was re-designated CV-2 in 1962 and retained that designation for the remainder of its Army career.   In Jan. 1967, when responsibility for all fixed-wing tactical transports was transferred to the U.S. Air Force, the Caribou received the designation C-7.   During the Southeast Asian conflict, the Caribou's STOL capability made it particularly suitable for delivering troops, supplies, and equipment to isolated outposts.

This C-7A is a Southeast Asia combat veteran which later served with the Air Force Reserves.   It was flown to the USAF Museum in May 1983.

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