Piper L-4J

Piper L-4J
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A derivative of the famous Piper Cub, the L-4A Grasshopper served with distinction in both World War II and Korea. About 5,375 were built for the Army in various models from 1941 on; they were powered by a variety of engines ranging from 65-horsepower Franklins to 100-horsepower Lycomings.The L-4 was a light observation and liaison aircraft adapted for military use from the Piper J-3 "Cub," a popular private airplane developed in the late 1930s. The primary difference between the civil and military versions is the enlarged window area in the rear cabin to allow better observation. Produced in various models, the L-4 was used by both the U.S. Army and Navy, whose designation for the aircraft was NE-1.During World War II, the Grasshopper served admirably in its primary role of airborne artillery spotting. Flying over the battlefield, the L-4's observer would spot enemy artillery and troop positions, radio the information to Allied ground forces who could then direct artillery or air strikes on the enemy. L-4s were so effective at silencing enemy artillery that they became a favorite with Allied ground forces. The Grasshopper served in all theaters of World War II and in both Korea and Vietnam.

Specifications (L-4B):
      Crew
      Weight: Empty  290 kgs., Max Takeoff  498 kgs.
      Wing Span: 35ft. 2.5in.
      Length: 6.79
      Height:2.07 m
  Engine: One 65-hp Continental A65 flat-four piston engine 
      Performance:
      Maximum Speed:150 km/h
     Ceiling: 3.6 kms
     Range: 400 kms
     Armament: None

Number Built:
J-3/L-4:  14,125 Civil; 5703 Military
J-4/L-4:  17
J-5/L-4:  Unknown, at least 100 HE-1s

Number Still Airworthy: Unknown, probably over 40 original L-4s, plus hundreds of J-3s.

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