Originally developed to fulfill the long-range maritime reconnaissance role, the Convair XP5Y-1 was noteworthy for its high-speed blended-hull design, intended to overcome the aerodynamic drag associated with flying boat hulls. Powered by four 5250 shp Allison XT-40-A-4 turboprops, it flew for the first time on April 18, 1950. Changes in USN requirements led to a redesign of the aircraft to the transport role. Re-designated R3Y Tradewind, 11 aircraft were built. Several modifications were incorporated into the new R3Y-1 including increased horsepower T-40-A-10 engines, new nacelles, shorter airscrew driveshafts and tailpipes, and V-shaped float struts. Convair later re-designed the nose and added a large hinged door at the bow. This new version was designated R3Y-2 and flew on October 22, 1954. A last attempt at salvaging the project resulted in a refuelling tanker conversion, but this was not enough to save the Tradewind. All were scrapped in 1959.
Features -
- 3 model variations with 4 texture set variations :
- R3Y-1 ‘Indian Ocean Tradewind’
- R3Y-1 ‘Coral Sea Tradewind’
- R3Y-2 ‘Caribbean Sea Tradewind’
- R3Y-2 ‘South Pacific Tradewind’
- both R3Y-1 'Cruiser' and R3Y-2 'Bowloader' variants included.
- virtual cockpit with gauges and controls.
- stunning bump-mapped 2048-pixel texture sets.
- very high quality native FSX models.
- highly detailed and accurate beaching cradle included.
- animated opening doors, crew and Bowloader nose with extendable ramps
- RY3-2 'Bowloader' refuelling version also included, with animated hoses.
- togglable realistic crew figures with accurate period flight gear.
- virtual cockpit includes several interior spaces including main hold.
- wide range of alternative viewpoints for interior and exterior.
- animated, featherable contra-rotating propeller blades.
- illustrated user manual in PDF format.
- turboprop soundset.
- PhotoShop paintkit files provided.
- Note - NO 2D panel is provided.
