AF-2S & 2W...

[C118FE]

Those were my first a/c to be "plane captain" of in VS 931 in '56.They don't seem to be very popular.Never see any pics or topics on them.I believe at one time they had a nickname of "Flying Coffins." With the 2800 they were a powerful a/c which served a purpose.Anyone have any pics or useful info that all could enjoy? Thanks.

[Dan K]

...Never see any pics or topics on them...

Search "Grumman Guardian" for recent threads.

[Mark Allen M]

I've got a few nice VS-931 photos I'll post in the morning.

[K5DH]

Weren't a handful of Guardians used as airtankers back in the day? I know there are a few airframes still in existence, but no flyers any more (alas).

[sandiego89]

Weren't a handful of Guardians used as airtankers back in the day? I know there are a few airframes still in existence, but no flyers any more (alas).

Correct, ~5 flew as air tankers with Aero Union in California. Likely the only reason we still have several of the survivors.

[Mark Allen M]

Great looking airplane, source NMNA archives


AF-2W and AF-2S Guardian aircraft of Anti-Submarine Squadron (VS) 25 in flight near San Diego, California c 1950


Grumman AF Guardian introduced in VS-15 in October 1950; as first of 193 built


An AF-2S Guardian of Antisubmarine Squadron (VS) 931 launches from the deck of the escort carrier Sicily (CVE 118) steaming in the Sea of Japan August 1952


The aircraft carrier Bon Homme Richard (CV 31) steams in the Atlantic Ocean with AF Guardians of Antisubmarine Squadron (VS) 931 on deck March 1952


The aircraft carrier Bon Homme Richard (CV 31) steams in the Atlantic Ocean with AF Guardians of Antisubmarine Squadron (VS) 931 on deck March 1952


Stern view of the flight deck of the aircraft carrier Bon Homme Richard (CV 31) steaming in the Atlantic Ocean with AF Guardians of Antisubmarine Squadron (VS) 931 on deck March 1952


AF-2W Guardian of Antisubmarine Squadron (VS) 22 with its engine running on the ground at Naval Air Station (NAS) Norfolk, Virginia June 1951

[C118FE]

Thanks for the pics,guys.Brings back some good memories.

[mike furline]