Lockheed Hudson

The Lockheed Hudson was a light bomber and coastal reconnaissance aircraft built initially for the Royal Air Force shortly before the outbreak of World War II. The Hudson was the first significant aircraft construction contract for the Lockheed Aircraft Corporation—the initial RAF order for 200 Hudsons far surpassed any previous order the company had received. The Hudson served throughout the war, mainly with Coastal Command but also in transport and training roles as well as delivering agents into occupied France. The Hudson was also operated by the USAAF, US Navy, RAAF, RCAF and RNZAF.

Survivors

Former Royal New Zealand Air Force Hudsons which saw World War II service in the South Pacific are on display at the Royal New Zealand Air Force Museum and Ferrymead Heritage Park in Christchurch and the Museum of Transport and Technology in Auckland. A Hudson in Royal Australian Air Force colours is preserved in the Royal Air Force Museum at Hendon. RAAF Hudsons can be found at the Temora aviation collection, the Australian War Memorial, and the RAAF Museum. Other ex RNZAF and RAAF machines are in private hands. One complete and several partial Hudsons also exist in Canada. One aircraft, in Australia, was converted for passenger use and flown by East West Airlines.

Related Topics:
Royal New Zealand Air Force - World War II - Royal New Zealand Air Force Museum - Christchurch - Museum of Transport and Technology - Auckland - Royal Australian Air Force - East West Airlines

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