North American T-2 Buckeye US Navy USS Lexington

General Product Description

Our PlaneArt North American T-2 Buckeye US Navy USS Lexington model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.

The North American T-2 Buckeye US Navy USS Lexington model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful, finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any aviation enthusiast or avid military jet aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual real life version.

There are many types of military jet aircraft, but the basic types are bombers, fighters, fighter bombers, spotter planes, transporters, patrol aircraft, trainers, and reconnaissance and observation aircraft. All these types of aircraft are used for different types of missions. If you're a fan of historic or present-day military aviation, our model aircraft will bring the excitement and character of these aircraft right into your own home.

If you require, we can also make the North American T-2 Buckeye US Navy USS Lexington model in any other military, government or even private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary, in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military propeller, warplane jets, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimps, dirigibles, blimps, boats, and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

The North American T-2 Buckeye and Its Legacy on the USS Lexington

The North American T-2 Buckeye, an integral part of US Navy training for over four decades, holds a special place in the annals of naval aviation history. This aircraft, designed specifically for training, served as the primary jet trainer for thousands of naval aviators. The USS Lexington, an aircraft carrier turned museum, is closely tied to the story of the T-2 Buckeye, having been one of the platforms from which many naval aviators trained and launched their careers.

Development and Design of the T-2 Buckeye:

Developed by North American Aviation in the 1950s, the T-2 Buckeye was designed to meet the US Navy’s need for a dedicated jet trainer that could handle the transition of propeller-driven aircraft trainees to jets. The aircraft made its first flight on January 31, 1958, and was introduced to the Navy in 1959. It replaced the T-1 SeaStar and was named “Buckeye” after the state tree of Ohio, where its manufacturer was based.

The design of the T-2 Buckeye was straightforward and robust, featuring a high-mounted wing and tricycle landing gear which made it ideal for carrier operations. It was powered initially by one Westinghouse J34-WE-48/50 turbojet engine, but later models were equipped with two Pratt & Whitney J60 engines, offering greater safety and reliability.

Role and Operational History:

The primary role of the T-2 Buckeye was to provide basic and advanced training including carrier landing practice. Its dual control system allowed instructors to take over flight controls if necessary, making it an excellent platform for teaching new pilots the intricacies of jet operations and carrier landings.

Over its service life, the Buckeye trained several generations of pilots. Its simplicity and ease of maintenance made it a favorite among flight instructors and trainees alike. Although primarily used by the US Navy, the T-2 Buckeye was also operated by the Marine Corps and several foreign militaries.

The T-2 Buckeye on the USS Lexington:

The USS Lexington, known as “The Blue Ghost,” is a storied aircraft carrier that served in the United States Navy from 1943 to 1991. Post decommissioning, it was turned into a museum ship, permanently berthed at Corpus Christi, Texas. The Lexington has a unique connection to the T-2 Buckeye, having served as a training carrier where countless naval aviators honed their skills aboard Buckeyes.

As a museum, the USS Lexington showcases several aircraft, including a T-2 Buckeye, allowing visitors to explore the rich history of naval aviation and the essential role played by trainer aircraft in preparing pilots for combat readiness. The presence of the Buckeye on the Lexington serves as a tribute to the thousands of naval aviators who started their journey aboard this reliable trainer.

Legacy and Decommissioning:

The T-2 Buckeye was officially retired from active service in 2008. Its longevity and effectiveness underscored by its over 50 years of service, during which it trained over 11,000 pilots. Today, the Buckeye is remembered not only for its reliability and utility but also as a symbol of the era it served.

Although no longer in active service, the T-2 Buckeye continues to be an object of interest for aviation enthusiasts and historians. Museums such as the USS Lexington play a crucial role in preserving this interest, offering a tangible link to the past and insights into the training processes that prepared pilots for their roles in America’s naval aviation history.

The North American T-2 Buckeye, while a trainer by design, was much more than just an aircraft. It was a foundational part of naval training, shaping the skills and careers of thousands of aviators who went on to serve with distinction in the US Navy and beyond. Its story, inextricably linked with that of the USS Lexington, remains a proud chapter in the story of military aviation.