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One unusual use of the B-26 was for use in
a program designed to test the feasibility of droppable cargo containers. At least two B-26s, B-26B 44-34606 ( Which was accidently
shot down by 64-17668 in 1966 and crashed into the sea ) and B-26C
44-35678 were used for this program and modified to carry the container under its right wing. A suspension apparatus was attached
to the underside of the wing and a remote release mechanism was installed. The idea was to resupply forward operating bases
and other inaccessible or hazardous areas without access to normal airlift, for example, frontline troops engaged in battle
or aircrew members after an emergency/crash landing.
The container itself was a streamlined box with access panels
built into the side for loading and unloading supplies. The "landing gear" consisted of a pair of skids in the center and
a small wheel and tire at the nose. Various configurations were tested for stability in flight (vertical stabilizer added)
and ruggedness on the ground.
The test program was marginally successful; however, advances in precision and low level
air drops by more conventional cargo/transport aircraft made the use of combat aircraft to deliver supplies impractical for
operational service.
| Type |
Number built/
converted |
Remarks |
| B-26 |
At least 2 |
Special Project test aircraft |
Below shows 44-35678 being used as a test bed for a carrying system to supply
troops in forward combat areas.
Each wooden pallet was fitted with landing skids and a nose wheel,
allowing it to be dropped at low altitude into small field and open areas.
The above shot shows "606" ptior to her accident with 64-17668
in 1966
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