Q&A · 2:32:48

Could the Dauntless bridge the Barracuda gap?

Earlier delivery might have made the SBD Dauntless a temporary option if it improved on the Albacore in the Royal Navy's strike role.

Fairey Albacore Fairey Barracuda Fleet Air Arm Naval Aviation SBD Dauntless

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Question

If the SBD-5 Dauntless had reached the Royal Navy earlier, could it have served as a stopgap before the Barracuda?

Short answer

Potentially, if it proved better than the Albacore and useful in the Royal Navy strike role.

Notes

Earlier availability might have made the SBD Dauntless a stopgap candidate before the Barracuda. Adoption would depend on whether it was better than the Albacore. The relevant comparison was its usefulness in the Royal Navy's strike role.