Douglas C-74 Globemaster facts for kids
Quick facts for kids C-74 Globemaster |
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| C-74 Globemaster at Long Beach, California. | |
| Role | Strategic airlifter |
| Manufacturer | Douglas Aircraft Company |
| First flight | 5 September 1945 |
| Retired | 1969 (last operational flight) |
| Status | Retired – 1959 (military), 1969 (civilian) |
| Primary users | United States Army Air Forces United States Air Force |
| Produced | 1945–1947 |
| Number built | 14 (one converted to C-124 prototype) |
| Developed into | Douglas C-124 Globemaster II |
The Douglas C-74 Globemaster was a very large military transport aircraft. It was built in the United States by the Douglas Aircraft Company. This giant plane had its first flight in 1945. It was designed to carry heavy cargo and many soldiers over long distances.
The C-74 Globemaster was used by the United States Air Force from 1946 to 1956. It was a four-engine aircraft made entirely of metal. Only fourteen of these impressive planes were ever built.
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What is the C-74 Globemaster?
The C-74 Globemaster was known as a "strategic airlifter." This means it was built to move large amounts of supplies, equipment, or troops far across the world. It was one of the first planes designed for such a big job. Its huge size allowed it to carry loads that other planes couldn't.
Design and Features
The C-74 was a massive aircraft for its time. It had four powerful engines to help it lift heavy loads and fly long distances. Its body was made completely of metal, making it strong and durable. The plane was designed to be a workhorse, capable of flying across oceans to support military operations.
Role in the Korean War
Even though only a few C-74s were made, they played an important part during the Korean War. These planes helped transport vital supplies and equipment to support the troops fighting in Korea. Their ability to carry large amounts of cargo quickly was very valuable.
Legacy of the Globemaster
The C-74 Globemaster was a groundbreaking aircraft. It helped the United States Air Force learn how to build and operate very large transport planes. Even though only a few were built, the lessons learned from the C-74 were used to create an even more famous plane: the Douglas C-124 Globemaster II. The C-124 was a bigger and more successful version, carrying on the "Globemaster" name. The last C-74 stopped flying in 1969.
Images for kids
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C-74 Globemaster over Long Beach, California
See also
In Spanish: Douglas C-74 Globemaster para niños
