Douglas A-26 Invader
| A-26 (B-26) Invader | |
|---|---|
| A warbird A-26 Invader | |
| General information | |
| Type | Ground attack Light bomber |
| Manufacturer | Douglas Aircraft Company |
| Primary users | United States Army Air Forces |
| Number built | 2,503 |
| History | |
| Introduction date | 1944 |
| First flight | 10 July 1942 |
| Retired | 1980 (Colombian Air Force) |
| Variants | On Mark Executive, Marketeer, and Marksman |
The Douglas A-26 Invader (designated B-26 between 1948 and 1965) is an American twin-engined light bomber and ground attack aircraft. Built by Douglas Aircraft Company during World War II, the Invader also saw service during several major Cold War conflicts. A limited number of highly modified United States Air Force aircraft served in Southeast Asia until 1969. It was a fast aircraft capable of carrying a large bomb load. A range of guns could be fitted to produce a formidable ground-attack aircraft.
A redesignation of the type from A-26 to B-26 has led to confusion with the earlier and unrelated Martin B-26 Marauder, which had already been withdrawn from service when the designation was reused.