Hobby Master 1/72 Air Power Series HA1523 North American AT-16 Harvard U-331, Swiss Air Force, 1960s. 1/72 Scale Diecast Model, Size: 7" Wingspan & 5." Long, Optional Up & Down Landing Gear, Armaments & Display Stand Are Included.

The North American Aviation T-6 Texan is an American single-engined advanced trainer aircraft used to train pilots of the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF), United States Navy, Royal Air Force, and other air forces of the British Commonwealth during World War II and into the 1970s. Primary Role: Trainer Aircraft.

ôThe Pilot Makerö was the name the North American T-6 Texan earned over the years. With over 17,000 produced in several versions these planes trained countless thousands of would-be pilots from every corner of the world. This little plane had a 58-year career in military service from 1938 until 1996 when the South African Air Force became the last air force in the world to retire their T-6. Even after most military retired the plane hundreds if not thousands of them found a new life in civilian service.

In 1948 Switzerland bought forty surplus Canadian built AT-16 Harvard IIBs serials from U-301 to U-340, U-331 was ex-RAF FE449. These aircraft were used as advanced trainers to introduce new pilots to instrument flying. The rear cockpit could be completely covered making it necessary for the trainee to rely on his instruments. After 20 years the AT-16s were wearing out and parts were scarce so the Plitaus P-3 replaced the AT-16s. Of the original 40 aircraft 5 were lost to accidents but one was rebuilt and is on display at the Swiss Air Force Museum in Dubendorf. Five were sold to Austria and Great Britain with the remainder being scrapped and the engines sold to the U.S..