The Grumman S-2 Tracker (S2F prior to 1962) was the first purpose-built, single airframe anti-submarine warfare (ASW) aircraft to enter service with the United States Navy. Designed and initially built by Grumman, the Tracker was of conventional design "” propeller-driven with twin radial engines, a high wing that could be folded for storage on aircraft carriers, and tricycle undercarriage. The type was exported to a number of navies around the world. Introduced in 1952, the Tracker and its E-1 Tracer derivative saw service in the U.S. Navy until the mid-1970s, and its C-1 Trader derivative until the mid-1980s, with a few aircraft remaining in service with other air arms into the 21st century. Argentina and Brazil are the last countries to still use the Tracker.
The Tracker was intended as a replacement for the Grumman AF Guardian, which was the first purpose-built aircraft system for ASW, using two airframes for two versions, one with the detection gear, and the other with the weapon systems. The Tracker combined both functions in one aircraft. Grumman's design (model G-89) was for a large high-wing monoplane with twin Wright Cyclone R-1820 nine cylinder radial engines, a yoke type arrestor hook and a crew of four.
The S2F carried the nickname "Stoof" (S-two-F) throughout its military career.
The Tracker had an internal torpedo bay capable of carrying two lightweight aerial torpedoes or one nuclear depth charge. There were six underwing hard points for rocket pods and conventional depth charges or up to four additional torpedoes. A ventrally-mounted retractable radome for AN/APS-38 radar and a Magnetic Anomaly Detector (MAD) AN/ASQ-8 mounted on an extendable rear mounted boom were also fitted. Early model Trackers had an Electronic Support Measures (ESM) pod mounted dorsally just aft of the front seat overhead hatches and were also fitted with a smoke particle detector or "sniffer" for detecting exhaust particles from diesel-electric submarines running on snorkel. Later S-2s had the sniffer removed and had the ESM antennae moved to four rounded extensions on the wingtips. A 70-million-candlepower searchlight was mounted on the starboard wing. The engine nacelles carried JEZEBEL sonobuoys in the rear (16 in early marks, 32 in the S-2E/G). Early Trackers also carried 60 explosive charges, dispensed ventrally from the rear of the fuselage and used to create sound pulses for semi-active sonar (JULIE) with the AN/AQA-3 and later AQA-4 detection sets, whereas the introduction of active sonobuoys (pingers) and AN/AQA-7 with the S-2G conversion saw these removed. Smoke dispensers were mounted on the port ventral surface of the nacelles in groups of three each.
In 1954, de Havilland Canada (DHC) entered into a contract to build Trackers under license to replace the outmoded Grumman TBM-3E Avengers being used by the Royal Canadian Navy (RCN). 99 Trackers were built by DHC, with the first Canadian-built aircraft flying on 31 May 1956. From 1957 onwards, these aircraft operated from the newly deployed aircraft carrier HMCS Bonaventure and various shore bases. All the Canadian Trackers were built to the G-89 model design with a length of 42 feet (13 m). In 1960"“1961, 17 CS2F-1 aircraft, which had been relegated to training and utility duties by the CS2F-2, were transferred to the Royal Netherlands Navy. From 1964, 45 CS2F-2s were upgraded by fitting revised electronic equipment and sensors, becoming CS2F-3s. Also in 1964, a pair of CS2F-1 aircraft were stripped of armament and ASW electronics, converted to transports, and subsequently used for carrier onboard delivery. The CS2F-1, -2, and -3 were redesignated as the CP-121 Mk.1, Mk. 2, and Mk. 3 respectively following the unification of Canadian forces in 1968.
After Bonaventure was decommissioned in 1970, all remaining Canadian Trackers were transferred to shore bases. This limited their usefulness for ASW patrols, and between 1974 and 1981 gradually all but 20 were placed in storage and the remainder were stripped of their ASW gear. The remaining active-duty Trackers served until 1990 on fisheries protection and maritime patrol duties. A handful of Trackers were kept in flying condition until the late 1990s but were no longer used for active service.
DHC obtained a single U.S.-built S2F-1 for manufacturing verification; it was initially given RCN serial number 1500. In 1954, this aircraft was transferred to the RCN for operational testing, and was coded X-500. In 1956, it was upgraded to CS2F-1 standards and assigned serial number 1501, and was used as a stationary instructional airframe at Shearwater until 1972. Wikipedia (with revisions)
Wikipedia, Grumman CS2F Tracker
Known Squadron Assignments:
de Havilland Canada received a single US built Tracker in early 1954, to serve as a pattern aircraft. USN serial number, if any, is not known. Delivered in standard USN dark blue finish. Flown once at Downsview before being dis-assembled. Re-assembled and airworthy by 13 December 1954, when it was accepted by VX10. Serial 1500 applied by then, coded "X500". Jointly operated by VX 10 and DHC crews for equipment trials, starting with the Bendix autopilot. To the National Aeronautical Establishment at Uplands for MAD trials on 18 July 1954. In dark grey and medium grey RCN colours by then. Stopped briefly at Downsview late July 1954, then back to Uplands. Back to Downsview on 29 November 1955 for further equipment trials. Test pilots included John Cunningham, on loan from de Havilland in the UK. Taken on strength by RCN 18 December 1955. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10
Serial number 1501 assigned by October 1956. Used for production jig verification, and for tests at de Havilland Canada, Downsview, and at the National Aeronautical Establishment at RCAF Station Uplands. Taken on strength at VX 10 18 December 1955, again 27 September 1956 to 8 January 1957. Used as prototype for CS2F-2. To the Naval Air Maintenance School as instructional airframe on 29 January 1957, and renumbered 706A on 29 March 1968. Now preserved at Shearwater Aviation Museum. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VS880;VS881
First Canadian built Tracker delivered to RCN, at HMCS Shearwater on 13 October 1956. Operated by VX 10, coded "703". One of four aircraft to the UK in early 1957 for initial trials on HMCS Bonaventure. First Tracker to land on board Bonaventure, on 2 April 1957. To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 180, on 30 March 1961, for use by VSQ 1. Operated by Dutch until 1971, then used for fire department training, then scrapped. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10
First Canadian built Tracker to fly. Used by VX 10 for Julie active echo ranging equipment trials in 1957. Also used for PB-20 autopilot trials. To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 181, on 18 September 1961, for use by VSQ 1. Operated by Holland until 1968, then scrapped. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10
Used briefly by VX 10 for PB-20 autopilot trials. With the Winter Experimental Establishment at RCAF Station Namao, Alberta. Carried extra red arctic markings for several years after this. To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 182, on 18 September 1961, for use by VSQ 1. Operated by Holland until 1971. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10
Used briefly by VX 10 for PB-20 autopilot trials. To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 183, on 18 September 1961, for use by VSQ 1. Operated by Holland until 1971, scrapped by 1979. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VS880;VS881;VU32
Operated by VX 10, coded "704". One of four aircraft to the UK in early 1957 for initial trials on HMCS Bonaventure. To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 184, on 10 April 1961, for use by VSQ 1. Operated by Dutch Navy until 1970. Passed to Fokker Technical School. Awaiting restoration in 1997. On display at MLD (Naval Air Museum) de Kooy Neth (date unknown). last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VS880
Used briefly by VX 10 for PB-20 autopilot trials. Used for trial installations of some CS2F-3 equipment, never redesignated. Became instructional airframe 742B. Preserved, now displayed at Camp Borden, Ontario. Mounted on a pole near 16 Wing HQ by 2006. Still at Borden in 2021. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS881
Operated by VS881 when it crashed on 27 October 1957, during operations from HMCS Bonaventure. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VS881;VU32
With VS 881, coded "B 2". To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 185, on 18 September 1961, for use by VSQ 1. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS881;VU32
With VU 32 when it was ditched in the South Atlantic on 14 April 1960. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VS881
To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 186, on 6 December 1960, for use by VSQ 1. Operated in Holland until 1971, later scrapped. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VS881
To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 187, on 6 December 1960, for use by VSQ 1. Operated in Holland until 1970, later scrapped. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VS881
To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 188, on 18 September 1961, for use by VSQ 1. Operated by Holland until 1969. Was reported on US Register, as N8195; but no longer on US Register as of August 1989 (reference US FAA Registry}. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VS881
With VS 881, coded "B 7". To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 189, on 6 December 1960, for use by VSQ 1. Operated by Holland until 1969. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS881
To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 190, on 18 September 1961, for use by VSQ 1. Operated in Holland until 1969. Passed to KLM technical school, still there 1999. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VS881
To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 191, on 30 March 1960, for use by VSQ 1. Operated by Holland until 1968, later scrapped. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS881;VS880
With VS880 when it crashed on takeoff from Shearwater 16 January 1960. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VS881
To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 192, on 30 March 1961, for use by VSQ 1. Operated by Holland until 1970, later scrapped. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS881;VS880
With VS880 when it was written off during simulated deck landings at Shearwater, NS on 20 August 1959, no fatalities. 2 members of rescue party received George Crosses for extracting unconscious pilot shortly before aircraft exploded. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VU33;VS880;VS881
In storage at CFB Saskatoon, Sask., in 1976, still with RCN serial number. Never received CF serial number. To civil register. With Field Aviation in 1977 as C-GWUP. With Conair by May 1982 as C-GWUP. Later converted to Firecat serial 012, coded "568". Re-registered as Conair Firecat, serial number 12, on 24 September 1991. Still operational 1993 and 1997. Latest Certificate of Registration issued on 2 April 2002. Reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford in 2009. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VS881;VX10
Became instructional airframe A725. Struck off on 17 July 1974.Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VS881
To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 193, on 6 December 1960, for use by VSQ 1. Operated by Holland until 1970. Some parts to Delft University after scrapping (as training aids?). last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VS881
To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 194, on 6 December 1960, for use by VSQ 1. Operated by Holland until 1970, later scrapped. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VS881
To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 195, on 10 April 1961, for use by VSQ 1. Operated by Holland until written off after crash in Aruba, 26 August 1966. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VU33;VS881
Never received CAF serial before being struck off. Operated by Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources as CF-IOF, later CF-OPY (by 1976), coded "58". To Conair for conversion to Firecat, registered as C-FOPY by May 1985. Registration as CS2F-1 cancelled 24 September 1991. Re-registered as Conair Firecat, serial number 019, coded "569" the same day. Last Certificate of Registration issued on 2 April 2002. Reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford in 2009. Deleted from Canadian Register 2020. Scrapped 2020. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VS880
To Royal Netherlands Navy, their number 196, on 18 September 1961, for use by VSQ 1. Operated by Dutch until 1968, then scrapped. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS880
With VS 880 when it crashed on 2 April 1959. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VU33;VS880
Became instructional airframe 726 C. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VS880
Crashed on 12 December 1959 with 4 fatalities, while with VS 880.Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VU33;VS880;VS881
No record of CAF serial being marked before sale. By 1972 with Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources as CF-OPT, reported as being used for spares. In 1980 with Conair as C-GMXY. In July 1982 converted to Firecat serial 010, coded "T3". Registration cancelled 1982. 16 July 1982, delivered to France as F-WZLP, by 1984 F-ZBAT, coded "T3", with Securite Civile. Written off in Corsica 24 September 1990, I fatality. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VU33;VS880;AETE
Was instructional airframe 707B. Now preserved at former CFB Summerside, PEI. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VU33
Made last Tracker flight from HMCS Bonaventure, on 12 December 1969. Pilot S. Rowell had made first Tracker landing on this ship in 1957. CAF serial was never marked. By 1972 with Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources as CF-OPX, coded "57". Still registered to them in 1976. In 1980 to Conair as C-FOPX. Converted to Firecat serial 005, coded "565" in March 1981. Written off on 27 July 1988 at Ymir, BC. Registration cancelled in 1989. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VU33;VS880
Sold 1972 to Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, registered as CF-OPW on 28 September 1972, coded "56". Still registered to them in 1976. In 1980 to Conair as C-FOPW. By May 1982 converted to Firecat serial 009. On 24 May 1982 delivered to France as F-ZBAU, coded "T2". Still operational 2002. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VU33;VS880;VS881
Converted to COD configuration 26 November 1963, for use with VU-32. This included removal of MAD boom and retractable radar, and installation of extra seats in rear fuselage. An extra fuel tank was installed in the bomb bay. Known as "COD No. 1" (see also 1540). Seen at Thorney Island, UK in September 1965. In storage at CFB Saskatoon, Sask., in 1976, still with RCN serial number.Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VU33;VS880
No record of CAF serial being applied. By 1972 to Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources as CF-OPV, coded "55". Still registered to them in 1976. In 1980 to Conair as C-FOPV. In April 1981 converted to Firecat serial 006, coded "566". Registration as CS2F-1 cancelled 24 September 1991. Re-registered as Conair Firecat, serial number 6, the same day. Last Certificate of Registration issued on 2 April 2002. Stored outside at Abbotsford, partially disassembled, 2004. Still there summer of 2007, marked as "66", reported as "12135". Reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford in 2009. Still there in August 2010. Deleted from Canadian registry July 2017. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
In storage at CFB Saskatoon, Sask., in 1976, still with RCN serial number. No record of CAF serial being applied. Purchased in 1975 to Conair as C-GHQY. Converted April 1979 to Firecat serial 002, coded "560". Written off at McBride BC, 15 September 1986, one fatality. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VU33;VS880
Coded "A37"with VS 880. Received wing tip ECM cans, but not full CS2F-3 conversion. No record of CAF serial being applied. By 1975 to Conair, Abbotsford Airport, Abbotsford BC as C-GHQZ. April 1978 converted to Firecat serial 001, coded #561. Written off Castlegar BC, 25 July 1978. 1 fatality. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
Not clear if CAF serial marked before sale. Sold 1977 to Field Aviation as C-GWHK. In early 1982 to Conair, by April 1984 converted to Firecat serial 016, coded "2". On 13 April 1984 delivered as C-GWHK, coded "2", to Province of Saskatchewan. Operated from La Ronge, Sask. Last Certificate of Registration issued on 8 October 1997. Still listed as current in Transport Canada database in November 2005, as a Conair Firecat, serial number 16. Reported derelict at Abbotsford in 2009, apparently to be used for spares. Still there in August 2010, still in Government of Saskatchewan colours. Deleted from Canadian registry July 2017. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VS881
No report if CAF serial number applied before being struck off. By 1972 to Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources as CF-OPU, coded "54". Still registered to them in 1976. By 1980 to Conair as C-FOPU. Converted April 1981 to Firecat serial 007, coded "564". Registration as CS2F-1 cancelled 24 September 1991. Re-registered as Conair Firecat, serial number 007, the same day. Last Certificate of Registration issued on 2 April 2002. Reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford in 2009. Registered to Canadian Museum of Flight, Langley, British Columbia, in February 2013. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VU33;VS880
Converted to COD configuration January 1965, for use by VU-32. This included removal of MAD boom and retractable radar, and installation of extra seats in rear fuselage. An extra fuel tank was installed in the bomb bay. Known as "COD No. 2" (see also 1534). Visited Portsmouth, UK, from HMCS Bonaventure, in October 1968.Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VU33;VS880
Stored at CFB Mountainview, Ontario. Instructional airframe number 727B, and 727C. At one time marked with fake serial 121727C. Used for battle damage repair training, and then cannibalized for spares by Conair Abbotsford. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS880
With VS 880 when it crashed on 5 March 1959. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VX10;VS880
last update: 2024-February-19Three young pilots and a technician travelling on weekend trips designed to give young naval pilots more time at the controls. Departed from Shearwater NS to Downsview ON. Stayed overnight in St Hubert QC.
Departure airport: CFB St. Hubert, QC
Destination airport: CFB Downsview, ON
Narrative: While attempting to land at CFB Downsview in Toronto, developed engine trouble, crashed between two houses and burst into flames, killing all on board. With VU 32 when it crashed.
Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VS880
Used briefly by VX 10 for PB-20 autopilot trials. Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32
Used briefly by VX 10 for PB-20 autopilot trials. Also used by VX 10 for equiment trials at White Sands, New Mexico, dates unknown.Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VS880
Used briefly by VX 10 for PB-20 autopilot trials. With VS 880 on HMCS Bonaventure in 1969. Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VU33;VS880
Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VS880
Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VS880
Used briefly by VX 10 for PB-20 autopilot trials. On board HMCS Bonaventure in May 1965, when the ship visited Portsmouth, UK. Operated by VS 880 at that time.Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;AETE;VU33;VS880
On board HMCS Bonaventure in May 1965, when the ship visited Portsmouth, UK. Operated by VS 880 at that time. Converted to CS2F-3. Seen 1981 at NAS Moffet, USA. Later stored at CFB Mountain View, Ontario. To Province of Saskatchewan, coded "3. Operated from La Ronge, Saskatchewan. Stored at Abbotsford, British Columbia, in August 2007, marked C-FKUR. Off Canadian Register. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
Became instructional airframe A730, then 730B, at CAF Borden, Ontario. At one point marked with fake serial "121551". In April 1994 to Air Command museum in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Still on display there in June 2012, marked as RCN 1551.Now on display at CFB Winnipeg, with original RCN serial marked. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
First production conversion to -3, completed on 18 July 1966. In storage at CFB Saskatoon, Sask., in 1976, still with RCN serial number. CAF serial marked some time after June 1970. To Saskatchewan government, registered as C-GEHR coded "3" on 7 July 1975. Still listed as current, based at La Ronge, in Transport Canada database November 2005. Off Canadian Register in March 2016. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
With VS 880 when it crashed on 8 April 1964. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS880
Converted to CS2F-3. Visited Portsmouth, UK, from VS880, HMCS Bonaventure, in October 1968. In storage at CFB Saskatoon, Sask., in 1976, still with RCN serial number.Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
Seen at Thorney Island, UK in September 1965. Last production conversion to -3, completed by Fairey Aviation Canada on 19 april 1968.Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
Converted to CS2F-3. With VS880 in 1982 and 1983. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VS880;VU33
To VX 10, 29 September 1959. To Aircraft Maintenance Depot 5 February 1960. To VS 880 24 February 1960. To VU 32, 18 June 1965. Back to VS 880 on 19 December 1965. Converted to CS2F-3, date not known. Note that CAF 12157 was briefly remarked 1557 in 1989, for type retirement ceremonies.Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VX10
Accepted by VX 10 at Downsview on 11 January 1960. Delivered first to VU 32, used for pilot training and fleet support. To VS 880 on 26 February 1960. Left this unit in September 1964, for overhaul. to VX 10 on 3 April 1965, used for increased gross weight trials. This program included tests at NAS Patuxent River in October 1966 and February 1967, and tests on board USS Lexington in the Gulf of Mexico in August and September 1967. Used as a development aircraft for the CS2F-3 program, but never redesignated. Also used by VX 10 for PB-20 autopilot trials. Remained with VX 10 as a trainer and utility aircraft until sold. Registered 7 October 1970 with Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources as CF-OPZ, coded "59". Converted to fire bomber at Sault St. Marie by Ontario Provincial Air Service, first RCN Tracker to be converted. Tested by de Havilland Canada at Downsview, as CF-OPZ-X, in February and March 1971. Still with OPAS in September 1977. By 1980 with Conair as C-FOPZ. Converted to first Firecat serial 008, first flight in this configuration 9 May 1982 at Abbotsford, British Columbia. Left Abbotsford on 19 May 1982, delivered to France 24 May 1982 as F-WZLS, later F-ZBAZ, coded "T1". Returned to Conair 30 September 1994 as F-WEOL, later C-FVPK. Converted to Turbo serial C11. Returned to France 5 July 1995 as F-WEOL, later F-ZBAZ, coded "T1". Seen at Edinburgh-Turnhouse airport, 17 September 2002. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
With VS 880 in 1960s. Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
On board HMCS Bonaventure in May 1965, when the ship visited Portsmouth, UK. Operated by VS 880 at that time. Converted to CS2F-3. In storage at CFB Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, in 1976, still with RCN serial number.Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VU33;VS880;VT406
Flown east bound across the Atlantic in May 1958, returning later that year. first round trip flight across the Atlantic by an RCN Tracker. Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
Served with VU 32. Seen at Oshawa Air Show in VU 32 markings, June 1962. Became instructional airframe 731B at CFB Borden. Marked with fake serial "121562" while there. On 8 May 1995 registered as C-FUCV, to Aero Composites Canada Inc. of Brantford, Ontario. Registration cancelled same year. On display at No. 6 RCAF Museum Dunnville, Ontario. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VU33
Converted to CS2F-3. With MR 880 Squadron 1982, and 1985. Seen at Vancouver International Airport, May 1984. Withdrawn from use in 1989. Ferried from Mountain View to Abbotsford. Stored at Abbotsford, British Columbia, in August 2007. Scrapped. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VU33;VT406
Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VS880
Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VU32;VT406
On board HMCS Bonaventure in May 1965, when the ship visited Portsmouth, UK. Operated by VS 880 at that time. Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
Converted to CS2F-3. Stored at CFB Mountain View, Ontario. To National Research council for use as fatigue test article in the 1980s. Broken up for spares. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VU32;VT406;VU33
Converted to CS2F-3. With VU 32, CFB Shearwater, Nova Scotia, in 1970. With MR 880 Squadron 1983, and 1985. Seen at London, Ontario air show in 1986, with camera pod under starboard wing. Withdrawn from use in 1989. Reported stored at Abbotsford, British Columbia, in 2007, marked C-FKVD. Scrapped. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VU33
Converted to CS2F-3. Visited Portsmouth, United Kingdom, from VS880, HMCS Bonaventure, in October 1968.Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VU33
On display at Canadian National Exhibition, Toronto, August 1960. Was trucked into fair grounds. On board HMCS Bonaventure in May 1965, when the ship visited Portsmouth, UK. Operated by VS 880 at that time. Seen at Thorney Island, UK in September 1965. Converted to CS2F-3. With VU 33 Squadron, CFB Comox, BC when it crashed during SAR mission, on 20 September 1973. 2 fatalities. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32
With VU 32 when it crashed on 25 August 1962. 2 fatalities. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
Converted to CS2F-3. With VS 880 when it ditched on 16 March 1969, during carrier operations. No fatalities. Following info received from Observer on that flight, R.N. Campbell: Incident occurred at night, 400 nautical miles south of Bermuda. Aircraft was attempting night landing, missed wire, and struck parked aircraft on go around. Damage to starboard wing and aileron produced major controlability problems on subsequent landing attempts, all 4 or 5 resulting in overshoots. Controlled ditching performed when fuel reached critical state, on moonless night. All crewmembers recovered by boat from plane guard, HMCS Fraser. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VS880;VU33
Used briefly by VX 10 for PB-20 autopilot trials. Converted to CS2F-3. Used for aft c.g. trials at HMCS Shearwater by de Havilland Canada pilots, in support of Field Aviation development of fire bombing conversion for Ontario government in early 1971. With VU 33, CFB Comox, British Columbia, in 1980. With 880 MR Squadron in 1983 and 1985. At Pearson Airport (Toronto) for retirement ceremony in 1989. Withdrawn from use that year. Stored at Abbotsford, British Columbia, in August 2007, marked C-FKVG. Reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford in 2009. On display at British Columbia Aviation Museum, Victoria International Airport, Victoria, British Columbia. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VS880
Used briefly by VX 10 for PB-20 autopilot trials. Converted to CS2F-3. In storage at CFB Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, in 1976, still with RCN serial number. Reported stored at Abbotsford, British Columbia, in August 2007, marked C-FLRF.Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
Converted to CS2F-3. Visited Portsmouth, UK, from VS880, HMCS Bonaventure, in October 1968.Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VS880;VU32
14 January 1970, became Instructional at Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Technology and Engineering CFB Borden, Ontario, number A732, later 732B. Still there in July 1992, wearing fake serial number "121577". In 1995 registered as C-FUDH, to Aero Composites Canada Inc., of Brantford Ontario. Registration cancelled same year. In 1997 to Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, Hamilton, Ontario. In 1998 under restoration in 880 Squadron markings. In 2004 on display, nearly complete but non-flyable. Parked outside museum in April 2006. On display inside Museum by 2010. Being restored to flyable condition during 2021.
I flew CS2F Serno 1577 while with VS-880, ashore and at sea on HMCS Bonnaventure. My log shows 13 flights in this specific aircraft.
Types of flights were routine IF training, crew ASW training, shadowing exercises, navigation training, test flights (for various requirements) , Mad comps (you would be familiar with those), CLP’s (carrier landing practice) and FCLP’s (Field Carrier Landing Practice), torpedo dropping, rocket firing, depth charge dropping, Jezex stuff (you can use that word now), Marlant patrols, and the occasional ADEX flight.... I have not included all the routine shore-based ops that occur, such as VIP transport, various demos for various visiting dignitaries, etc.
An occurrence that was of some interest (to me and my crew for sure) was the following:
We were on passage towards the UK in Bonnie, and it was a Sunday, the day for divisions (Navy talk for Sunday services). I and my crew were detailed to perform an ADEX (Air Defense Exercise) flight, planned for a two and a half hour trip and then to recover aboard HMCS Bonnaventure. Tracker 1577 was the assigned airframe.
We briefed, were catapulted off, and the ship then commenced Divisions on the flight deck, many hands attended. At max range from the ship, we experienced an electrical fire in the aft end of the fuselage- a transformer was burning- and did not respond to routine emergency actions that tried to stop / control it. A fair amount of smoke and fumes was being produced, and neither our #4 operator, nor our #3 operator could put it out.We were not near any land airfield or runway, just Bonnie. I declared an emergency and started returning to the ship, advising them that I wanted no delay in the pattern and an immediate recovery. Ship asked me to delay as the flight deck was not ready; I protested and continued inbound. By opening our overhead hatches we were able to alleviate the bad fumes somewhat, but the emanations continued, abating a bit such that when the deck had been made ready and turned into wind (all personnel off the flight deck, etc) I came directly and caught a good wire. Fire crew came in as soon as we stopped and handled everything well.
The aircraft was repaired and was back to flying status the next day.
last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VU33
Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VX10;VT406
On board HMCS Bonaventure in May 1965, when the ship visited Portsmouth, UK. Operated by VS 880 at that time. Converted to CS2F-3. Crashed at Whitewater Lake, Ontario, on 15 September 1977. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VU33
On board HMCS Bonaventure in May 1965, when the ship visited Portsmouth, UK. Operated by VS 880 at that time. Converted to CS2F-3. Scrapped. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VX10;VU32;VT406;VU33
Converted to CS2F-3. With VS 880 at Unification.Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VT406
Converted to CS2F-3. With VT 406 when it crashed on 5 October 1976. Came down near Lunenberg, Nova Scotia. Capt. R.A. Ross and Capt. Wilson killed. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VX10;VU32;VT406;VU33
Converted to CS2F-3. Visited Portsmouth, UK, from VS880, HMCS Bonaventure, in October 1968.Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
Crashed during exercises off Bermuda on 11 (or 8?) June 1963. Dug in a wing tip during MAD Trap at low altitude and cart wheeled. Co-pilot and one back-seater rescued, 2 fatalities. With VS 880 at that time. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VU32;VU33
Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VS880
With VS 880 at time of crash. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VU33;VT406;420;AETE
to VS 880, HMCS Shearwater, on 28 November 1961. Damaged in heavy landing 5 February 1962. Repaired by Fairey Aviation, and stored. Back to VS 880 in August 1962. Took part in search for crew of 1584 after its crash in June 1963. To Air Maintenance Depot for 600 hour inspection, returned to VS 880 on 22 August 1963. In operational reserve May to September 1964, then to VU 32 for a few days. Back to VS 880 on 16 September 1964, in time for cruises to Europe and South America. To VU 32 on 25 October 1966 for one month. Then to Fairey Aviation, for modification to CS2F-3 configuration. Back to VS 880 in October 1967. Visited Portsmouth, UK, from VS880, HMCS Bonaventure, in October 1968. Last carrier operation 29 October 1969. To VU 33, CFB Comox, in January 1970. renumbered. To VS 880 in 1974. To 420 Air Reserve Squadron, CFB Shearwater, in April 1974. Converted to coastal patrol configuration during 1976. To 880 MR Squadron 1978. Squadron moved to CFB Summerside, PEI, in June 1981. With 880 MR Squadron until 2 April 1990, when transferred to Canada Aviation Museum. Engines run regularly at Museum until 1998. Now on static display last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VU33;VS880
Converted to CS2F-3. Visited Portsmouth, UK, from VS880, HMCS Bonaventure, in October 1968.Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VU32;VX10;448;AETE;VU33
Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VX10;VU33
Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VX10;VU32;
Not clear if CAF serial actually marked. To civil register as C-GABC-X. In 1977 at Field Aviation as C-GABC. Registration cancelled on 27 May 1982. Sold March 1982 to Conair for conversion to Firecat serial 011, coded "567". Registration as CS2F-2 cancelled 24 September 1991. Re-registered as Conair Firecat, serial number 11, the same day. Damaged 1991, repaired. Seen 2 August 1993 at Patricia Bay (Victoria International Airport). Last Certificate of Registration issued on 2 April 2002. Reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford in 2009. On display at Reynolds Museum, Wetaskiwin, Alberta, in August 2013, as C-GABC. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS880
Converted to CS2F-3. On board HMCS Bonaventure in May 1965, when the ship visited Portsmouth, UK. Operated by VS 880 at that time. Visited Portsmouth, UK, from VS880, HMCS Bonaventure, in October 1968. Crashed on 16 February 1969 during take off from HMCS Bonaventure after catapult bridle broke, no fatalities. Aircraft was run over by Bonaventure, and 3 of the 4 crewpassed through the screws. Pilot Lt. Flanagan lost one leg below the knee, but went on to fly Seakings. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VU32
On board HMCS Bonaventure in May 1965, when the ship visited Portsmouth, UK. Operated by VS 880 at that time. Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VX10;VU32
Converted to CS2F-3. Visited Portsmouth, UK, from VS880, HMCS Bonaventure, in October 1968. Crashed 18 September 1969 during carrier operations, on charge with Fairey Aviation at that time (for conversion to -3?). last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VU32;VT406;VU33
On board HMCS Bonaventure in May 1965, when the ship visited Portsmouth, UK. Operated by VS 880 at that time. Converted to CS2F-3. With VU 33, CFB Comox, 1986. With 880 MR Squadron, 1983 and 1987. At CFB North Bay air show, summer of 1984. Later stored at CFB Mountain View, Ontario. Withdrawn from use on 24 March 1990. In May 1992 converted to Turbo Firecat serial T7 by Conair Aviation, registered as C-FKUF, coded "577". In August 1996 delivered to France for Securite Civile, as F-ZBCA, coded "T23", replacing "T18". Seen at Marseille in 2000 as F-ZBCZ, "T23". Seen at Edinburgh-Turnhouse airport September 2002, as F-ZBCZ, coded "T23". Stored at Abbotsford, British Columbia, in August 2007, marked C-FKVS. Scrapped. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VX10;VU32;VU33
Onbaord HMCS Bonaventure with VS 880 in 1956. Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VS880
On board HMCS Bonaventure in May 1965, when the ship visited Portsmouth, UK. Operated by VS 880 at that time. Converted to CS2F-3.Known Squadron Assignments: VS880
Converted to CS2F-3. CF serial probably not marked before sale. Registered as C-GEHP, to Saskatchewan government coded "1", on 25 June 1975. Still listed as current in Transport Canada database November 2005. The aircraft was obtained by Saskatchewan Fire Control in 1975 and converted for fire fighting. The aircraft flew with them until being retired in about 2015. This unit was then donated to the Saskatchewan Aviation Museum in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and is maintained in fully operational and airworthy status. Tim Munro 2022 last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VS880
On board HMCS Bonaventure in May 1965, when the ship visited Portsmouth, UK. Operated by VS 880 at that time. Converted to CS2F-3. Registered as C-GEQD, to Saskatchewan government coded "5", on 25 June 1975. In storage at CFB Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, in 1976, still with RCN serial number. CF serial probably not marked before sale. Still listed as current, based at La Ronge, Saskatchewan, in Transport Canada database in November 2005. Scrapped. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10
Last Canadian-built Tracker. Accepted by RCN on 28 October 1960. Operated by VX-10. Later became instructional airframe 733B at CFB Borden, Ontario. Seen at CFB Borden 1988, in AETE markings. Still at Borden, with School of Aerospace Technology and Engineering, in 1993, wearing fake serial "121600". Registered 7 April 1995 as C-FUDQ, to Aero Composites Canada Inc. In 1997 to Downsview for restoration. Registration cancelled on 15 May 1998. On display at de Havilland Family Day on 6 September 2008. Now on display at Edenvale Aviation Heritage Foundation (EAHF) Museum, in Stayner, Ontario, with original RCN serial number. last update: 2024-February-19Known Squadron Assignments: VX10
Leased to RCN by USN, used by VX 10 at Shearwater for pilot training and equipment tests. Accepted new at Bethpage, NY on 26 September 1956, and ferried to HMCS Shearwater. Retained USN markings while with RCN. To Kindley Field, Bermuda, for Julie active echo ranging equipment trials in October 1956. These trials included a visit to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba in February 1957. Tested AN/APN-59 radar for the CS2F-2 that year, including tests at NAS Patuxent River in May 1957. Returned to USN at NAS Jacksonville, Florida in September 1957. last update: 2024-February-19