Grumman TS-2A Tracker
One of the most successful anti-submarine warfare (ASW) aircraft yet conceived, the Tracker first flew in December 1952, and entered service with the U.S. Navy in 1954. It was continuously updated for ASW service, though many of the earlier machines found work as utility and training aircraft.
Our aircraft, TS-2A BuNo 133251, was one of the early model S-2s used in non- tactical roles and for training multi-engine flight crews until replaced by the Beech T- 44A in 1980.
Upon retirement, most of the S-2s went into storage, from where some would see service with foreign air forces, while others were transferred to various Forestry Services of the various states and converted to fire fighting duties.
The Naval service of BuNo 133251 is not known, but it was operated by the California Division of Forestry and flew as a fire bomber many years; it carries the CDF markings including the number “78” on the rudder. Recently it was retired and sold to a private owner along with several others. He in turn donated the aircraft to the Aerospace Museum of California.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Crew: Three
Powerplant: Two Wright R-1820-82WA Cyclones, each rated at 1,525 hp.
Dimensions:
Wing span – 72 ft 7 inches, wings folded – 27 ft 4 inches.
Length – 43 ft 6 in Height – 16 ft 7 in; wheel track – 18 ft 6 in.
Weight: – 18.750 lbs, Empty; – 29,150 lbs. Gross
Performance:
Speed: Sea level –265 mph; cruising speed – 207 mph
Ceiling: service – 21,000 ft
Range: 1,000 miles; endurance – 9 hours.
DONATED TO THE MUSEUM BY TIM MORROW OF ATLANTA, GA.