​The C-45 is a Military Transport Version of the Beechcraft Model 18, Which Began its 32 Year Production Lifespan in 1937. It was the Result of Walter Beech’s Desire in 1935 to Build a Low-Wing Monoplane to Compete with the Commercial Biplanes of the Day, Like the Curtis Condor.

​

The C-45 was First Ordered by the U.S. Army Air Corps for Use as a Staff Transport. It was Continually Modified Throughout its Production Life With Changes Like Increased Seating Capacity and a Longer Nose. A Navigator Training Version was Put in Service as the AT-7, and a Float-Version was Designated the AT-7A.

​

The Model 18 was Further Modified During 1941 as the Advanced Trainer AT-11, Equipped with a Small Bomb Bay, Transparent Nose Section, and Two .30 cal. Machine Guns. This Variant was Used for Bombardier and Gunnery Training. A Photo Reconnaissance Model, Designated the F-2, was the Final Wartime Variant of the Model 18.  The U.S. Navy and Marine Corps also Acquired More Than 1,500 Model 18s During World War II, with Respective Identifiers of JRB and SNB.​

​

Specifications (C-45F)

• Engines: Two 450-hp Pratt & Whitney R-985-AN-1

• Weight: Empty 6,175 lbs.,

• Max Takeoff 8,727 lbs.

• Maximum Speed: 215 mph

• Ceiling: 21,400 ft.

• Range: 850 miles

• Production: 9,388

• Flying Today: Approximately 250