The Curtiss T-32 Condor II, constructed by the Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company, was an American biplane airliner and bomber aircraft during the 1930s.
Primarily employed as an executive transport by the United States Army Air Corps, it served its purpose effectively.
The Condor II, a biplane constructed in 1933, featured a two-bay design and a single vertical stabilizer and rudder.
Notably, it possessed retractable landing gear and was powered by two Wright Cyclone radial engines.
Following its maiden flight on January 30, 1933, a total of 21 aircraft were produced.
These production models were specifically configured as luxurious night sleeper transports, accommodating up to 12 passengers.
During the Colombia-Peru War in 1933, the Colombian Air Force utilised three BT-32 aircraft that were equipped with floats.
These aircraft played a significant role in the conflict.
In a separate development, the United States Army Air Corps procured two modified T-32s, which were designated as YC-30, for their executive transport needs.
Additionally, one Condor aircraft underwent modifications, including the installation of extra fuel tanks, to support the 1939-1941 United States Antarctic Service Expedition.
Notably, this particular Condor had a fixed undercarriage, enabling its operation on both floats and skis, which was a unique feature for this aircraft model.
Subsequently, certain aircraft were upgraded to the AT-32 standard, incorporating variable-pitch propellers and improved engine nacelles.
The AT-32D variant offered the flexibility to convert from a sleeper configuration to accommodate 15 seats for daytime use.
Furthermore, four T-32s that were stationed in the United Kingdom were promptly enlisted by the Royal Air Force at the onset of World War II.
Eight bomber models (BT-32) were constructed with manually operated machine-gun turrets positioned in the front and above the rear fuselage.
These particular aircraft were subsequently sold to other countries.
Additionally, a military cargo variation (CT-32) was specifically designed for Argentina, featuring a spacious loading door located on the starboard side of the fuselage.
Variants
T-32
Production luxury night sleeper, 21 built including two as YC-30s.
T-32C
Ten T-32s modified to AT-32 standard.
AT-32A
Variant with variable-pitch propellers and 710 hp (529 kW) Wright SGR-1820-F3 Cyclone engines, three built.
AT-32B
An AT-32 variant with 720 hp (537 kW) Wright SGR-1820-F2 Cyclone engines, three built.
AT-32C
An AT-32 variant, one built for Swissair.
AT-32D
An AT-32 variant with 720 hp (537 kW) Wright SGR-1820-F3 Cyclone engines, one built.
AT-32E
AT-32 variant for the United States Navy as the R4C-1, two built.
BT-32
Bomber variant, eight built.
CT-32
Military cargo variant with large cargo door, three built.
YC-30
United States Army Air Corps designation for two T-32s.
R4C-1
United States Navy designation for two AT-32Es (one for United States Marine Corps) later to the United States Antarctic Service.
