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10 Second War Stories brings military history to life through stories, veteran profile, force profiles, and equipment guides across all nations and conflicts.

What was the Douglas C-47 Skytrain?

The C-47 Skytrain was a very famous and reliable cargo plane used by the Allied forces during World War II. It was based on a popular passenger plane called the DC-3. It first began flying for the military in 1941 and quickly became known for being a very tough and versatile aircraft.

What was the main job of the C-47 during the war?

The main job of this plane was to carry soldiers and paratroopers to the front lines. It was also used to haul heavy supplies, medicine, and food to areas where they were needed most. Because it could land on short and rough dirt runways, it was one of the most important planes for winning the war.

How did the C-47 help on D-Day?

On June 6, 1944, a massive fleet of C-47 planes flew across the English Channel to Normandy, France. They carried thousands of brave paratroopers and dropped them behind enemy lines during the night. This bold mission was a key part of the Allied plan to liberate Europe and defeat the enemy.

What is a famous fact about the C-47's missions?

Pilots flew very dangerous missions over the tall Himalayan mountains to support the war effort in Asia. These planes carried vital fuel and equipment to Chinese forces battling against the Axis units. This route was so difficult and risky that it became known as one of the most famous supply missions in history.

What is the historical legacy of the C-47?

The C-47 was built so well that it stayed in use for many decades after World War II ended. It helped save lives by carrying food during the Berlin Airlift in 1948. It also served during the Korean War and was even turned into an armed gunship for use in the Vietnam War.

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Military Transport

Douglas C-47 Skytrain

The C-47 Skytrain was a dependable cargo plane that carried troops, paratroopers, and critical battlefield supplies.

Allied Powers Introduced 1941 Douglas Aircraft CompanyRole: Tactical airlift and troop transport

Specifications

Top Speed

224 mph

Crew

3 to 4 crew members

Capacity

28 fully equipped soldiers or 6,000 lbs cargo

Range

1,600 miles

The Douglas C-47 Skytrain of Allied Powers

History

The Douglas C-47 Skytrain was developed from the civilian DC-3 airliner and entered military service in 1941. It quickly proved to be one of the most reliable and versatile twin-engine transport planes ever built.

On D-Day in June 1944, C-47s dropped thousands of Allied paratroopers behind enemy lines in Normandy. In the Pacific and Asia, they flew hazardous supply routes over the Himalayan mountains to deliver aid to Chinese forces battling Axis units.

The C-47 flew for decades after the war. It transported food during the 1948 Berlin Airlift, hauled supplies in the Korean War, and even served as an armed gunship during the Vietnam War.