Curtiss SB2C-5 83292 NACA Ames Porous Boundary-Layer Research December 1948

These are 1/72 scale decals for Curtiss SB2C-5 Helldiver 83292, operated by the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) at Ames Aeronautical Laboratory, Moffett Field, California in December 1948, wearing the full Insignia Yellow (FS 13538) NACA research scheme with flat black anti-glare panels.

Following its wartime service as the U.S. Navy's primary carrier-based dive bomber, this SB2C-5 was transferred to NACA Ames for research into Porous Boundary-Layer Matrix technology — an aerodynamic research program investigating the use of porous surface materials to control the boundary layer of airflow over a wing, with the goal of reducing drag and improving laminar flow characteristics. Boundary-layer control research of this type was a significant area of postwar aeronautical investigation, with implications for the design of the next generation of high-performance jet aircraft.

NACA Ames — today NASA Ames Research Center — was one of NACA's premier research facilities, home to some of the most advanced wind tunnels in the world and responsible for foundational research that shaped American aviation through the jet age and beyond. The all-over Insignia Yellow scheme with NACA titling on the cowling and fuselage is one of the most visually striking research aircraft liveries of the postwar era. Includes two serial options.

An exceptional subject for any NACA, postwar research, or Helldiver collection. Please allow some time for decal printing and shipping.