The Pacific War Online Encyclopedia
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Stinson L-5 Sentinel
|
Crew |
1 or 2 |
|
Dimensions |
34' by 24'1" by 9' |
|
Weight |
2050 lbs maximum |
|
Maximum speed |
130 mph |
| Cruise speed | 90 mph 145 km/h |
| Landing speed |
50 mph 80 km/h |
|
Service ceiling |
15,600 feet |
|
Range |
360 miles 580 km |
| Fuel capacity |
36 gallons 136 liters |
|
Engines |
One 190 hp Lycoming O-435-1 |
| Production | 3590 from 1942 to 1945 |
| Modifications |
A small number were equipped with floats for service with air-sea rescue squadrons |
The L-5 Sentinel was a versatile light unarmed
aircraft. It had a good short field capability and was used for
everything from spotting for artillery
to evacuation of casualties. Some 85% of all observed artillery fire on Saipan was directed by OY-1
Sentinels
(the Navy version of the aircraft) launched from escort carriers.
A single OY-1 could direct five tons of shells every three minutes at
any target in sight, which compared favorably with even the heaviest bombers.
References
FM 6-150 (1944-8-30; accessed 2012-7-9)
National
Museum of the USAF (accessed 2008-10-11)
The Pacific War Online Encyclopedia © 2008, 2012 by Kent G. Budge. Index
