Grumman Tracker (Canadian: 102 )
Grumman Tracker CS2F Tracker CP-121 S2F
Source: Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum (RCN Photo via Mike Kaehler)
de Havilland Canada (Grumman) CS2F Tracker, RCN (Serial No. 1595), preparing to launch from the deck of HMCS Bonaventure, 1969. Note how the nose wheel is off the deck and how the catapult cable hooks onto the fuselage. This aircraft survived its life at sea and went on to become Conair Turbo Firecat C-FKUF coded "577" in 1992. It was subsequently sold to Securite Civile of France as F-ZBCA coded "T-23"
de Havilland Canada (Grumman) CS2F Tracker, RCN (Serial No. 1595), preparing to launch from the deck of HMCS Bonaventure, 1969. Note how the nose wheel is off the deck and how the catapult cable hooks onto the fuselage. This aircraft survived its life at sea and went on to become Conair Turbo Firecat C-FKUF coded "577" in 1992. It was subsequently sold to Securite Civile of France as F-ZBCA coded "T-23"
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.
CP121, Source Photo Robert Pionteck
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
Harold A Skaarup Web PageCASPIR Aircraft Groups:
RCAF On Strength (73), Canadian Aircraft Losses (1), RCN On Strength (102)Tracker 1500
s/n
1500m/d
S2Fc/n
?
Grumman
Bethpage NY
CS2F-1
Bethpage NY
CS2F-1
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. 2023-03-04
1954-May-18 First Flight 2023-03-04
1955-December-18 Taken on Strength Delivered to de Havilland Canada 2023-03-04
1956-October-01 Serial Change renumbered as 1501 2019-08-20
1954-May-18 First Flight 2023-03-04
1955-December-18 Taken on Strength Delivered to de Havilland Canada 2023-03-04
1956-October-01 Serial Change renumbered as 1501 2019-08-20
Tracker 1501
s/n
1501inst
A 706m/d
S2F
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031956-October-01 Serial Change renumbered from 1500 2019-08-20
1957-January-08 First Flight by Company test pilots George Neal and Richmond. Brought up to CS2F-1 standard. 2023-03-04
1957-January-29 Taken on Strength Griffin2005 Instructional Register shows converted to Instructional 28 Mar 1968. RCAF A/C by Designer shows s/n 1501 assigned Oct 1956, hence TOS date 08 Dec 1955 appropriate. No Inv Card in vault. Changed to Jan 29 1957, went to Shearwater as instructional. 2023-03-04
1968-March-28 Classified Instructional CA A 706 2020-06-19
1972-January-17 Struck off Strength Struck off, to Shearwater Aviation Museum. 2019-08-20
Tracker 1502
s/n
1502m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC01
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031956-June-15 First Flight at Downsview, Ontario by DHC pilots George Neal and Tony Verrico. 2023-03-03
1956-October-17 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1503
s/n
1503m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC02
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031956-May-31 First Flight at Downsview, by company pilots George Neal and Tony Verrico. 2023-03-03
1956-October-17 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1504
s/n
1504m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC03
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031956-July-19 First Flight at Downsview by Company pilots George Neal and Tony Verrico. 2023-03-03
1956-December-07 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1505
s/n
1505m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC04
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031956-October-11 First Flight by Company pilots George Neal and Pete Cranston. 2023-03-03
1957-January-05 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1506
s/n
1506m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC05
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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). 2023-03-031956-October-22 First Flight by Company test pilots George Neal and Dave Fairbanks. 2023-03-03
1956-December-27 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1507
s/n
1507inst
724 Bm/d
S2Fc/n
DHC06
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031956-November-08 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Bob Fowler. 2023-03-03
1957-January-08 Taken on Strength No Inv Card in vault. Converted to instructional 14 Jan 1970. DeHavilland Canada website notes delivered to RCN in 1957, confirmed TOS 08 Jan 1957 in Griffin2005 RCN Register. 2020-11-02
1970-January-14 Classified Instructional CA 724 B 2020-06-19
1982-March-30 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1508
s/n
1508m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC07
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known Squadron Assignments: VS881
Operated by VS881 when it crashed on 27 October 1957, during operations from HMCS Bonaventure. 2023-03-031956-December-10 First Flight by Company test pilot Tony Verrico. 2023-03-03
1957-February-08 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1957-November Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1509
s/n
1509m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC08
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2022-03-131956-December-11 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Pete Cranston. 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1510
s/n
1510m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC09
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known Squadron Assignments: VS881;VU32
With VU 32 when it was ditched in the South Atlantic on 14 April 1960. 2023-03-031956-December-13 First Flight by Company test pilots Dave Fairbanks and George Neal. 2023-03-03
1957-February-10 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-May-05 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1511
s/n
1511m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC10
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031957-January-02 First Flight by Company test pilot Tony Verrico. 2023-03-03
1957-March-25 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1512
s/n
1512m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC11
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031957-January-01 First Flight 2023-03-03
1957-March-18 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1513
s/n
1513m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC12
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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}. 2023-03-031957-January-30 First Flight by Company test pilot Bob Fowler 2023-03-03
1957-April-02 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1514
s/n
1514m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC13
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031957-February-06 First Flight by Company test pilot Tony Verrico. 2023-03-03
1957-April-15 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1515
s/n
1515m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC14
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031957-March-06 First Flight by Company test pilot Bob Fowler 2023-03-03
1957-May-08 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1516
s/n
1516m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC15
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031957-March-01 First Flight by Company test pilot Tony Verrico. 2023-03-03
1957-June-20 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1517
s/n
1517m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC16
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known Squadron Assignments: VS881;VS880
With VS880 when it crashed on takeoff from Shearwater 16 January 1960. 2023-03-031957-March-21 First Flight by company test pilot Tony Verrico. 2023-03-03
1957-May-21 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-September Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1518
s/n
1518m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC17
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031957-March-29 First Flight by company test pilot Tony Verrico 2023-03-03
1957-June-11 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1519
s/n
1519m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC18
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031957-April-16 First Flight by company test pilot Tony Verrico 2023-03-03
1957-July-03 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1959-November-04 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1520
s/n
1520m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC19c/r
C‑GWUP
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-061957-April-30 First Flight by Tony Verrico 2023-03-03
1957-October-15 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1975-September-15 Struck off Strength Struck off, placed in storage. SOS date: no Inv Card, changed to 15 Sept 1975 per Griffin2005 RCN Registry. 2020-11-01
Tracker 1521
s/n
1521inst
A 725as/n
12121m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC20
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VS881;VX10
Became instructional airframe A725. Struck off on 17 July 1974.2023-03-03
1957-May-17 First Flight by company test pilot Tony Verrico. 2023-03-03
1957-July-29 Taken on Strength No Inv Card in vault. Converted to instructional 14 Jan 1970. TOS 29 July 1957 in Griffin2005 RCN Register. 2020-11-02
1970-January-14 Classified Instructional CA A 725 2020-06-19
1970-June Serial Change To CAF serial number 12121. 2020-06-07
1975-June-25 Struck off Strength SOS date: no Inv Card, changed to 25 June 1975 per Griffin2005 RCN Registry. 2020-11-01
1990-March-24 to Storage Withdrawn from use, stored. 2020-07-25
Tracker 1522
s/n
1522m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC21
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
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?). 2023-03-031957-May-29 First Flight by company test pilot Bob Fowler 2023-03-03
1957-August-05 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1523
s/n
1523m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC22
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031957-July-29 First Flight by company test pilot Bob Fowler 2023-03-03
1957-September-24 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1524
s/n
1524m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC23
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031957-June-02 First Flight by company test pilot Bob Fowler 2023-03-03
1957-September-30 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1525
s/n
1525as/n
12125m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC24c/r
CF‑IOF, C‑FOPY
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Known 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. 2023-03-061957-July-10 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change To CAF serial number 12125 2020-07-25
1972-September-28 Struck off Strength SOS date: no Inv Card, changed to 28 Sept 1972 per Griffin2005 RCN Registry. 2020-11-01
Tracker 1526
s/n
1526m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC25
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031957-July-19 First Flight by company test pilot Bob Fowler 2023-03-03
1957-October-07 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-November-17 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1527
s/n
1527m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC26
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known Squadron Assignments: VS880
With VS 880 when it crashed on 2 April 1959. 2023-03-031957-August-02 First Flight by company test pilot Bob Fowler 2023-03-03
1957-November-05 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1959-April-02 Struck off Strength 2020-07-25
1959-April-02 KIFA RCN Lieutenant George Boyd Daugharty 2023-07-251959-April-02 KIFA RCN Sub-Lieutenant Gary Edward Logan 2023-07-261959-April-02 KIFA RCN Petty Office 2nd Class Allan Edward Moore 2023-07-261959-April-02 KIFA RCN Able Seaman Joseph Almas Jean Paul Nantel 2023-07-26Tracker 1528
s/n
1528inst
A 726as/n
12128m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC27
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VU33;VS880
Became instructional airframe 726 C. 2023-03-031957-August-30 First Flight by Company test pilot Bob Fowler 2023-03-03
1957-October-10 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-January-14 Classified Instructional CA A 726 2020-06-19
1970-June-01 Serial Change To CAF serial number 12128 2020-06-07
1988-March-09 Struck off Strength 2020-07-25
Tracker 1529
s/n
1529m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC28
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VS880
Crashed on 12 December 1959 with 4 fatalities, while with VS 880.2023-03-03
1957-September-09 First Flight by Company test pilot Tony Verrico 2023-03-03
1957-November-22 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1960-January-04 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
1959-December-12 KIFA RCN Petty Officer 2nd Class Jack Albert Bottaro 2023-07-251959-December-12 KIFA RCN Able Seaman Francis Russell Dawson 2023-07-251959-December-12 KIFA RCN Lieutenant-Commander Roger Seymour Harris 2022-12-101959-December-12 KIFA RCN Sub-Lieutenant Gordon Grant Mowat 2022-12-12Tracker 1530
s/n
1530m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC29c/r
CF‑OPT, C‑GMXY
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
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. 2023-03-061957-November-26 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1973-July-30 Struck off Strength SOS date: no Inv Card, changed to 30 July 1973 per Griffin2005 RCN Registry. 2020-11-01
Tracker 1531
s/n
1531inst
707 Bas/n
12131m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC30
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VU33;VS880;AETE
Was instructional airframe 707B. Now preserved at former CFB Summerside, PEI. 2023-03-031957-October-08 First Flight by Company test pilot Tony Verrico. 2023-03-03
1957-December-27 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1968-August-19 Classified Instructional CA 707 B 2020-06-19
1970-June Serial Change CAF serial number 12131 reserved. 2020-06-07
1983-April-29 Struck off Strength 2020-07-26
Tracker 1532
s/n
1532as/n
12132m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC31c/r
CF‑OPX, C‑FOPX
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Known 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. 2023-03-061957-October-28 First Flight by Company test pilot Bob Fowler 2023-03-03
1957-December-17 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change CAF serial number 12132 reserved. 2020-07-26
1972-September-28 Struck off Strength SOS date: no Inv Card, changed to 28 Sept 1972 per Griffin2005 RCN Registry. 2020-11-01
Tracker 1533
s/n
1533as/n
12133m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC32c/r
CF‑OPW, C‑FOPW
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Known 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. 2023-03-061957-November-05 First Flight by Company test pilot Tony Verrico. 2023-03-03
1958-January-07 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change To CAF 12133. 2020-07-26
1972-September-28 Struck off Strength SOS date: no Inv Card, changed to 28 Sept 1972 per Griffin2005 RCN Registry. 2020-11-01
Tracker 1534
s/n
1534as/n
12134m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC33c/r
C‑GWTX
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Known 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.In 1975 on US registry as N9AG, used by Airborne Geophysics for survey work. In storage at CFB Saskatoon, Sask., in 1976, still with RCN serial number. In 1980 to Conair as C-GWTX, by May 1980 converted to Firecat serial 004, coded "564". Written off in July 1980 in a ground fire. No record of CAF serial being applied. 2023-03-06
1957-November-20 First Flight by Company test pilot George Neal. 2023-03-03
1958-January-22 Taken on Strength Delivered to RCN 2020-10-02
1970-June Serial Change To CAF as 12134. 2020-07-26
1975-April-24 Struck off Strength 2020-10-02
Tracker 1535
s/n
1535m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC34c/r
CF‑OPV, C‑FOPV
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
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. 2023-03-061958-January-27 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1972-September-28 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. SOS date: no Inv Card, changed to 28 Sept 1972 per Griffin2005 RCN Registry. 2020-11-01
Tracker 1536
s/n
1536m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC35c/r
C‑GHQY
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-061958-February-17 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1975-March-27 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
Tracker 1537
s/n
1537m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC36c/r
C‑GHQZ
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-061958-March-11 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1975-March-27 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
Tracker 1538
s/n
1538as/n
12138m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC37c/r
C‑GWHK
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Known 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. 2023-03-061958-January-08 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1958-January-20 First Flight by Company test pilot Tony Verrico. 2023-03-03
1970-June Serial Change To CAF as 12138. 2020-07-26
1974-February-19 Struck off Strength SOS date: no Inv Card, changed to 19 Feb 1974 per Griffin2005 RCN Registry. 2020-11-01
Tracker 1539
s/n
1539m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC38c/r
CF‑OPU, C‑FOPU
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-061958-January-31 First Flight by Company test pilot Bob Fowler. 2023-03-03
1958-April-01 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1972-September-28 Struck off Strength SOS date: no Inv Card, changed to 28 Sept 1972 per Griffin2005 RCN Registry. 2020-11-01
Tracker 1540
s/n
1540as/n
12140m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC39c/r
C‑GWUO
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Known 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.Not clear if CAF serial actually marked before being struck off. In 1975 on US register as N99261, Airborne Geophysics. In 1980 sold to Conair as C-GWUO. By April 1980 converted to Firecat serial 003, coded "563". Still in service 1990. Last Certificate of Registration issued on 2 April 2002. Reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford in 2009. Still there in August 2010. Off Canadian registry November 2012. 2023-03-06
1958-February-13 First Flight by Company test pilot Tony Verrico. 2023-03-03
1958-April-15 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change To CAF as 12140 . 2020-07-26
1975-September-15 Struck off Strength 2020-10-02
Tracker 1541
s/n
1541inst
727 Bas/n
12141m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC40
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-1 CP-121
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. 2023-03-031958-February-25 First Flight by Company test pilot Tony Verrico. 2023-03-03
1958-May-06 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-January-14 Classified Instructional CA 727 C 2020-06-19
1970-June Serial Change To CAF as 12141 . 2020-06-07
1990-December-21 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
Tracker 1542
s/n
1542m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC41
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known Squadron Assignments: VS880
With VS 880 when it crashed on 5 March 1959. 2023-03-031958-March-12 First Flight by Company test pilot Tony Verrico. 2023-03-03
1958-May-26 Taken on Strength 2023-03-03
1959-March-26 Struck off Strength Struck off, see comments. 2019-08-20
Tracker 1543
s/n
1543m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC42
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-1
Downsview
CS2F-1
Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VX10;VS880
1958-March-21 First Flight by Company test pilot Tony Verrico. 2023-03-031958-June-17 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
Ferry Flight 1968-02-02 to 1968-02-02
VU 32 () Sqn (RCN) CFB Shearwater
Tracker 1543
Three 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.
1968-May-22 Struck off Strength Struck off after crash, see comments. 2019-08-20
1968-February-02 KIFA RCN Sub-Lieutenant William John Boles 2023-04-041968-February-02 KIFA RCN Sub-Lieutenant Preben Ejgil Kaersvang 2023-03-041968-February-02 KIFA RCN Lieutenant Murray George McRadu 2023-06-301968-February-02 KIFA RCN Able Seaman Michael Schofield 2022-12-12Tracker 1544
s/n
1544as/n
12144m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC43
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VS880
Used briefly by VX 10 for PB-20 autopilot trials. Converted to CS2F-3.Stored at CFB Mountainview, Ontario. To Conair Abbotsford, cannibalized for spares. 2023-03-03
1958-October-09 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Mick Saunders. 2023-03-03
1958-October-23 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change To CAF as 12144. 2020-07-26
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2020-07-26
Tracker 1545
s/n
1545inst
728 Bas/n
12145m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC44c/r
C‑FUCS,
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 CP-121
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.At CFB Borden, Ontario, as instructional airframe, A 728, later 728B. Not sure when CAF number 12145 applied. Registered 8 May 1995 as C-FUCS, to Aero Composites Canada Inc. of Brantford, Ontario. Registration cancelled same year. On display at RCAF Memorial Museum at Trenton, Ontario in 2005, with RCN serial number. Still there in 2021. 2023-03-03
1959-April-20 First Flight by Company test pilot Bob Fowler. 2023-03-03
1959-May-22 Taken on Strength 2020-07-26
1970-January-14 Classified Instructional CA 728 B 2020-06-19
1970-June Serial Change To CAF as 12145. 2020-06-07
1993-June-08 Struck off Strength SOS date: no Inv Card, changed to 08 June 1993 per Griffin2005 RCN Registry. 2020-11-01
Tracker 1546
s/n
1546as/n
12146m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC45c/r
C‑GEQG
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
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.CAF serial marked well after June 1970, if at all. Registered to Saskatchean government as C-GEQG on 23 September 1975. In storage at CFB Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, in 1976, still with RCN serial number. Scrapped.
2023-03-03
1959-May-12 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Mick Saunders. 2023-03-03
1959-June-15 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change To CAF as 12146 . 2020-07-26
1975-September-23 Struck off Strength 2020-10-02
Tracker 1547
s/n
1547as/n
12147m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC46c/r
C‑FKUQ
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VU33;VS880
Converted to CS2F-3.With MR 880 Squadron 1982, 1983, and 1985. Withdrawn from use at 1989. Stored outside at Conair, 2002. Stored at Abbotsford, BC in August 2007, marked C-FKUQ. Reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford in 2009. Still there in August 2010. Scrapped. 2023-03-03
1959-May-26 First Flight by Company test pilots Mick Saunders and Tony Verrico. 2023-03-03
1959-July-08 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change To CAF as 12147. 2020-07-26
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2020-10-02
Tracker 1548
s/n
1548as/n
12148m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC47
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VS880
Converted to CS2F-3.With MR 880 Squadron 1985. Withdrawn from use in 1989. Used as a training aid at BC Institute of Technology. Still performing engine runups as late as 2002. Last seen at Abbotsford in June 2021. 2023-03-03
1959-June-15 First Flight by Company test pilots Mick Saunders and Peter Tymchuk. 2023-03-03
1959-September-30 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change To CAF as 12148. 2020-07-26
1990-February-07 Struck off Strength SOS date: no Inv Card, changed to 07 Feb 1990 per Griffin2005 RCN Registry. 2020-11-01
Tracker 1549
s/n
1549inst
729 Bas/n
12149m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC48
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 CP-121
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.Became instructional airframe 729B. Stored at CFB Mountain View, Ontario. Cannibalized for spares. Not clear if CAF serial number ever marked. 2023-03-06
1959-July-02 First Flight by Company test pilots Mick Saunders and Peter McBride. 2023-03-03
1959-September-30 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-January-14 Classified Instructional CA 729 B 2020-06-19
1970-June Serial Change To CAF as 12149. 2020-06-07
1990-February-07 Struck off Strength SOS date: no Inv Card, changed to 07 Feb 1990 per Griffin2005 RCN Registry. 2020-11-01
Tracker 1550
s/n
1550as/n
12150m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC49c/r
C‑FKUR
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
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. 2023-03-061959-July-23 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-03
1959-September-21 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change To CAF as 12150. 2020-07-26
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2020-07-26
Tracker 1551
s/n
1551inst
730 Bas/n
12151m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC50
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 CP-121
Known 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. 2023-03-031959-August-20 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Peter McBride. 2023-03-03
1960-February-04 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-January-14 Classified Instructional CA 730 B 2020-06-19
1970-June Serial Change To CAF as 11251. 2020-06-07
1992-October-07 Struck off Strength 2020-07-26
Tracker 1552
s/n
1552as/n
12152m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC51c/r
C‑GEHR
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known 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. 2023-03-061959-August-28 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Lew Morgan 2023-03-04
1960-February-04 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change To CAF, serial 12152 assigned . 2020-07-26
1975-July-07 Struck off Strength 2020-10-02
Tracker 1553
s/n
1553m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC52
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2
Downsview
CS2F-2
Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
With VS 880 when it crashed on 8 April 1964. 2023-03-031959-September-14 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico, Ted Johnson and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-04
1959-September-29 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1964-May-27 Struck off Strength 2019-08-20
Tracker 1554
s/n
1554as/n
12154m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC53c/r
C‑GEQC
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known 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.CAF serial marked some time after June 1970. To Saskatchewan government coded "4", registered as C-GEQC on 23 September 1975. Seen at Downsview 1998. Still listed as current, based at La Ronge, Saskatchewan, in Transport Canada database in November 2005. Off Canadian Register in March 2016. 2023-03-06
1959-September-18 First Flight by Company test pilots Mick Saunders and Peter McBride. 2023-03-04
1959-September-29 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change To CAF, serial 12154 assigned . 2020-07-26
1975-September-23 Struck off Strength 2020-10-02
Tracker 1555
s/n
1555as/n
12155m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC54c/r
C‑FLQZ
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
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.Stored at CFB Mountain View, Ontario. Stored at Abbotsford, BC in August 2007, marked C-FLQZ. Scrapped. 2023-03-03
1959-October-02 First Flight by Company test pilots Ted Johnson and Peter McBride. 2023-03-04
1959-November-17 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change To CAF as 12155. 2020-07-27
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1556
s/n
1556as/n
12156m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC55c/r
C‑FSPK
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
Converted to CS2F-3. With VS880 in 1982 and 1983. 2023-03-061959-October-15 First Flight by Company test pilots Ted Johnson and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-04
1960-January-24 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change To CAF as 12156. 2020-07-27
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2020-10-02
Tracker 1557
s/n
1557as/n
12157m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC56
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known 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.With VU 32 when renumbered. To VS 880 on 31 August 1972. Back to VU 32 on 13 June 1973. To 406 Air Reserve Squadron May 1976. To No. 420 (AR) Squadron on 6 June 1976, still there in 1979. Back with VS880 by August 1989. Special paint scheme, based on original RCN colours, for type retirement in September 1989. This scheme included original RCN serial number. Later stored at CFB Mountain View, Ontario. On display at Shearwater Aviation Museum, marked as RCN 1557. Reported still airworthy in 2006. Still on display at this Museum in 2021. 2023-03-03
1959-September-29 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1959-October-21 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Peter McBride. 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change To CAF as 12157. 2020-07-27
1994-May-26 Struck off Strength Struck off, passed to Shearwater Aviation Museum. 2020-10-02
Tracker 1558
s/n
1558m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC57c/r
CF‑OPZ, C‑FOPZ
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2
Downsview
CS2F-2
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. 2023-03-061959-November-05 First Flight First flight at Downsview, by Ted Johnson and Peter Tymchuk. 2023-03-04
1960-January-14 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-September-09 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2019-08-20
Tracker 1559
s/n
1559as/n
12159m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC58c/r
C‑FLRA
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / -3
Downsview
CS2F-2 / -3
Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
With VS 880 in 1960s. Converted to CS2F-3.Stored at CFB Mountain View, Ontario. Stored at Abbotsford, BC in August 2007, marked C-FLRA. Scrapped. 2023-03-03
1959-November-11 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Peter Tymchuk. 2023-03-04
1959-December-29 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12159. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength Struck off, placed in storage. 2020-07-27
Tracker 1560
s/n
1560as/n
12160m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC59c/r
C‑GEHQ
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / -3
Downsview
CS2F-2 / -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.Registered to Saskatchewan government as C-GEHQ coded "2" on 7 July 1975. Registration cancelled 1989. 2023-03-06
1959-November-16 First Flight by Company test pilots Ted Johnson and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-04
1960-January-18 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12160 2019-08-20
1975-July-07 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2020-10-02
Tracker 1561
s/n
1561as/n
12161m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC60c/r
C‑FYSY
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / -3
Downsview
CS2F-2 / -3
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.Reported on civil register as CF-YSY in 1985, but at London air show in CAF markings, summer of 1988. Reported as started Firecat conversion, c/n 037, but not completed. Reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford c.2000. Scrapped. 2023-03-03
1959-December-02 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Peter Tymchuk. 2023-03-04
1960-February-11 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12161. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1562
s/n
1562inst
731 Bm/d
S2Fc/n
DHC61c/r
C‑FUCV
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2
Downsview
CS2F-2
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. 2023-03-031959-December-14 First Flight by Company test pilots Ted Johnson and Peter Tymchuk. 2023-03-04
1959-December-29 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-January-14 Classified Instructional CA 731 B 2020-06-19
1993-June-08 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
Tracker 1563
s/n
1563as/n
12163m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC62c/r
C‑FKVB
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known 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. 2023-03-061959-December-29 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1960-February-12 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Peter Tymchuk. 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12163. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1564
s/n
1564as/n
12164m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC63
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VU33;VT406
Converted to CS2F-3.Seen at London, Ontario air show 1980. With MR 880 Squadron 1985. Withdrawn from use in 1989. Reported at IMP on east coast, as part of their Turbo Tracker program. Later reported stored disassembled at Conair at Abbotsford, British Columbia. 2023-03-06
1960-March First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and McKellar. 2023-03-04
1960-April-04 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12164 2019-08-20
1991-February-11 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1565
s/n
1565as/n
12165m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC64c/r
C‑FLRB
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VS880
Converted to CS2F-3.Stored at CFB Mountain View, Ontario. In 1992 registered as C-FLRB, to Conair Aviation. Stored at Abbotsford, BC in August 2007, marked C-FLRB. 2023-03-03
1960-March-18 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and McKellar. 2023-03-04
1960-April-04 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12165 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1566
s/n
1566as/n
12166m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC65c/r
C‑FLRD
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
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.Stored at CFB Mountain View, Ontario. In 1992 registered as C-FLRD, to Conair Aviation. Still active 1994. Stored at Abbotsford, BC in August 2007, marked C-FLRD. Reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford in 2009. Still there in August 2010. 2023-03-03
1960-March-18 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico, McKellar and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-04
1960-April-04 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12166. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2020-07-27
Tracker 1567
s/n
1567as/n
12167m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC66
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
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. 2023-03-061960-April-27 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-04
1960-May-25 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12167. 2019-08-20
1984-September-24 Struck off Strength Struck off, used for spares. 2020-07-27
Tracker 1568
s/n
1568as/n
12168m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC67c/r
C‑FKVD
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known 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. 2023-03-061960-May-02 First Flight by Company test pilots Bob Fowler and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-04
1960-June-12 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12168. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1569
s/n
1569as/n
12169m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC68
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VU33
Converted to CS2F-3. Visited Portsmouth, United Kingdom, from VS880, HMCS Bonaventure, in October 1968.With VU 33, CFB Comox, 1983 and 1986. With 880 MR Squadron, CFB Summerside, in 1982. At Plattsburg AFB, NY, air show, September 1980. At CFB Trenton air show, 1981. Seen at London, Ontario air show summer of 1986. Seen at CFB Borden, Ontario, 1988. Withdrawn from use in 1991. Later reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford, British Columbia. Scrapped. 2023-03-03
1960-May-18 First Flight by Company test pilots Ted Johnson and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-04
1960-June-29 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12169. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1570
s/n
1570as/n
12170m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC69
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
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. 2023-03-061960-June-01 First Flight by Company test pilot George Neal. 2023-03-04
1960-July-20 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12170. 2019-08-20
1973-November-02 Struck off Strength Struck off after crash, see comments 2020-07-27
Tracker 1571
s/n
1571m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC70
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2
Downsview
CS2F-2
Known Squadron Assignments: VU32
With VU 32 when it crashed on 25 August 1962. 2 fatalities. 2023-03-031960-June-09 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-04
1960-July-22 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-July Struck off Strength Written off after crash, see comments. 2019-08-20
1962-August-25 KIFA RCN Lieutenant William Patrick Dall 2023-04-251962-August-25 KIFA RCN Lieutenant Larry Adam Viczko 2023-04-25Tracker 1572
s/n
1572m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC71
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / -3
Downsview
CS2F-2 / -3
Known 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. 2023-03-031960-June-30 First Flight by Company test pilots Mick Saunders and White. 2023-03-04
1960-July-26 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1969-April-28 Struck off Strength Struck off after crash, see comments. 2019-08-20
Tracker 1573
s/n
1573as/n
12173m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC72c/r
C‑FKVG
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known 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. 2023-03-061959-June-05 First Flight by Company test pilots Mick Saunders and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-04
1959-June-11 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12173. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1574
s/n
1574as/n
12174m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC73c/r
C‑FLRF
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known 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.Stored at CFB Mountain View, Ontario. Scrapped. 2023-03-03
1959-June-23 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Peter Tymchuk. 2023-03-04
1959-October-02 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12174. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1575
s/n
1575as/n
12175m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC74
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
Converted to CS2F-3. Visited Portsmouth, UK, from VS880, HMCS Bonaventure, in October 1968.With VS 880 when it crashed on 18 (or 19?) April 1971 2023-03-03
1959-July-09 First Flight by Company test pilots Mick Saunders and Peter Tymchuk. 2023-03-04
1959-August-28 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12175 . 2019-08-20
1971-August-20 Struck off Strength Struck off after crash, see comments 2020-07-27
1971-April-19 KIFA RCN Leading Seaman Donald John Mitchell 2024-04-28Tracker 1576
s/n
1576inst
A 744as/n
12176m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC75
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880
Converted to CS2F-3.Instructional airframe number A744 at CFB Shearwater. By 1993 at Atlantic Canada Aviation Museum, Halifax Nova Scotia. On display in 2009. 2023-03-03
1959-August-26 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-04
1959-October-02 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12176. 2019-08-20
1972-January-17 Classified Instructional CA A 744 2020-07-27
1990-May-01 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1577
s/n
1577inst
A 732 732 Bas/n
12177m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC76c/r
C‑FUDH
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2
Downsview
CS2F-2
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.
Memo from Vernon Miller (retired):
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.
2023-03-031959-September-03 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-04
1959-October-29 Taken on Strength Accepted 2023-03-04
1970-January-14 Classified Instructional CA 732 B 2020-06-19
1993-June-08 Struck off Strength Struck off, sold. SOS date: no Inv Card, changed to 08 June 1993 per Griffin2005 RCN Registry. 2020-11-01
Tracker 1578
s/n
1578as/n
12178m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC77c/r
C‑FKVK
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VU32;VS880;VU33
Converted to CS2F-3.With 880 MR Squadron in 1982 and 1985. Stored at Abbotsford, British Columbia, in August 2007, marked C-FKVK. Reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford in 2009. Still there in August 2010. Scrapped. 2023-03-03
1959-September-30 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Peter McBride. 2023-03-04
1959-November-12 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12178. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength Withdrawn from use. SOS date changed to 08 Jan/91 per Griffin2005; shown in "Tracker - CP-121 - Kaehler List 01 Mar/19" as Conair 1991. 2020-10-02
Tracker 1579
s/n
1579m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC78
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / -3
Downsview
CS2F-2 / -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. 2023-03-031959-October-09 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Peter McBride. 2023-03-04
1959-December-10 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12179. 2019-08-20
1978-June-29 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
Tracker 1580
s/n
1580m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC79
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / -3
Downsview
CS2F-2 / -3
Known 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. 2023-03-031959-October-29 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Peter McBride. 2023-03-04
1959-December-10 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 121180. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
Tracker 1581
s/n
1581as/n
12181m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC80
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VX10;VU32;VT406;VU33
Converted to CS2F-3. With VS 880 at Unification.With 880 MR Squadron in 1982. With VU 33, CFB Comox, British Columbia, from 1983 until retired. Visited California in February 1983, while with VU 33. At Hamilton, Ontario, air show, 1989. Later reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford, British Columbia. Scrapped. 2023-03-03
1959-December-04 First Flight by Company test pilots Ted Johnson and Peter Tymchuk, 2023-03-04
1959-December-10 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12181. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength Struck off, one year after being taken out of service. 2020-07-27
Tracker 1582
s/n
1582as/n
12182m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC81
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
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. 2023-03-061959-December-17 First Flight by Company test pilots Ted Johnson and Peter Tymchuk. 2023-03-06
1959-December-29 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12182 . 2019-08-20
1977-April-18 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
Tracker 1583
s/n
1583as/n
12183m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC82c/r
C‑FKVP
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VX10;VU32;VT406;VU33
Converted to CS2F-3. Visited Portsmouth, UK, from VS880, HMCS Bonaventure, in October 1968.With VU 33, CFB Comox, British Columbia. Visited California in February 1983, while with VU 33. With 880 MR Squadron in 1985. Withdrawn from use in 1989. Stored at Abbotsford, British Columbia, in August 2007, marked C-FKVP. Reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford in 2009. Still there in August 2010. Scrapped. 2023-03-03
1959-November-19 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Peter Tymchuk. 2023-03-04
1959-December-29 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12183. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1584
s/n
1584m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC83
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2
Downsview
CS2F-2
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. 2023-03-031959-December-03 First Flight by Company test pilots Ted Johnson and Peter Tymchuk. 2023-03-04
1960-February-02 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1963-September-30 Struck off Strength Struck off after crash, see comments. 2019-08-20
1963-June-11 KIFA RCN Petty Officer, 2nd Class Robert Albert Hammer 2022-12-101963-June-11 KIFA RCN Lieutenant David Frederick Matheson 2022-12-11Tracker 1585
s/n
1585as/n
12185m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC84c/r
C‑GTRT
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VU32;VU33
Converted to CS2F-3.With 880 MR Squadron in 1982 and 1985. Was registered as C-GTRT, in 1987, for trials with PT6 turboprop engine installation by IMP Group Ltd. of Halifax, Nova Scotia. First flight in this configuration on 15 September 1988 at Halifax. Withdrawn from use in 1989. Reportedly cannibalized for spares. Registration cancelled 17 March 1992, and again on 6 June 2001. Later reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford, British Columbia. Scrapped. 2023-03-03
1959-December-29 Taken on Strength 2022-02-07
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12185. 2019-08-20
1991-April-22 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1586
s/n
1586m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC85
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2
Downsview
CS2F-2
Known Squadron Assignments: VS880
With VS 880 at time of crash. 2023-03-031960-March-22 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and McKellar. 2023-03-04
1960-April-21 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1960-August-22 Struck off Strength Written off, after crashing on 15 August 1960. 2019-08-20
1960-August-15 KIFA RCN Able Seaman William Donald Taylor 2022-12-121960-August-15 KIFA RCN Lieutenant Louis Joseph Paul Veronneau 2022-12-12Tracker 1587
s/n
1587as/n
12187m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC86
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known 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 2023-03-031960-March-30 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and McKellar. 2023-03-04
1960-April-04 Taken on Strength 2019-08-20
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12187 . 2019-08-20
1990-March-30 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1588
s/n
1588as/n
12188m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC87
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VX10;VU32;VU33;VS880
Converted to CS2F-3. Visited Portsmouth, UK, from VS880, HMCS Bonaventure, in October 1968.Still in service 1980. With 880 MR Squadron in 1982. Later became instructional airframe. Later displayed at Comox Air Force Museum, CFB Comox, BC. 2023-03-03
1960-April-14 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-04
1960-June-01 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12188. 2019-08-20
1990-March-26 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1589
s/n
1589as/n
12189m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC88c/r
C‑FKVQ
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VU32;VX10;448;AETE;VU33
Converted to CS2F-3.Served with 880 MR Squadron in 1983. With VU 33, CFB Comox, British Columbia, in 1986. Seen at London, Ontario air show 1983. Flew in Hamilton air show 1983. At CFB Trenton air show 1984. Withdrawn from use in 1989. Stored at Abbotsford, British Columbia, in August 2007, marked C-FKVQ. Reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford in 2009, without tail. Still there in August 2010. Scrapped. 2023-03-03
1960-May-02 First Flight by Company test pilots George Neal and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-04
1960-June-16 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12189. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1590
s/n
1590as/n
12190m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC89c/r
C‑FKVR
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VX10;VU33
Converted to CS2F-3.Stored at CFB Mountainview, Ontario. In 1992 registered as C-FKVR, with Conair Aviation. Still active 1994. Stored at Abbotsford in August 2007. Scrapped. 2023-03-03
1960-May-04 First Flight by Company test pilots Bob Fowler and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-04
1960-July-04 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12190. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength Struck off, stored. 2020-07-27
Tracker 1591
s/n
1591as/n
12191m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC90c/r
C‑GABC
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 CP-121
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. 2023-03-061960-May-20 First Flight by Company test pilots Ted Johnson and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-04
1960-June-21 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12191. 2019-08-20
1974-January-25 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. SOS date: no Inv Card, changed to 25 Jan 1974 per Griffin2005 RCN Registry. 2020-11-01
Tracker 1592
s/n
1592m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC91
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / -3
Downsview
CS2F-2 / -3
Known 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. 2023-03-031960-June-06 First Flight by Company test pilots Tony Verrico and Lew Morgan. 2023-03-04
1960-July-18 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1969-February-25 Struck off Strength Struck off after crash, see comments. 2019-08-20
Tracker 1593
s/n
1593as/n
12193m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC92c/r
C‑GEQE
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known 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.Not remarked before sale? Became C-GEQE, coded "6", with Province of Saskatchewan. First registered on 23 September 1975. Operated from La Ronge. Still listed as current, based at La Ronge, Saskatchewan, in Transport Canada database in November 2005. Scrapped. 2023-03-03
1960-June-29 First Flight by Company test pilots Mick Saunders and Wilkinson. 2023-03-04
1960-July-27 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12193. 2019-08-20
1975-September-23 Struck off Strength 2020-10-02
Tracker 1594
s/n
1594m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC93
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / -3
Downsview
CS2F-2 / -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?). 2023-03-031960-July-25 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1969-December-16 Struck off Strength Struck off after crash, see comments. 2019-08-20
Tracker 1595
s/n
1595as/n
12195m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC94c/r
C‑FKUF
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known 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. 2023-03-061960-July-11 First Flight by Company test pilots Mick Saunders and Wilkinson. 2023-03-04
1960-August-23 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12195. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1596
s/n
1596as/n
12196m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC95c/r
C‑GEHP
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known Squadron Assignments: VS880;VX10;VU32;VU33
Onbaord HMCS Bonaventure with VS 880 in 1956. Converted to CS2F-3.With VU 33 in April 1977, when it visited Downsview, Ontario. With 880 MR Squadron in 1983. With VU 33, CFB Comox, British Columbia, in 1986. To Pratt & Whitney Canada in 1987, as testbed for PT6 installation. Later became C-GEHP, coded "1", with Province of Saskatchewan, based at La Ronge. Reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford in 2009. Still there in August 2010. Scrapped. 2023-03-03
1960-July-18 First Flight by Company test pilots Mick Saunders and Fred Judges. 2023-03-04
1960-September-02 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12196. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2020-07-27
Tracker 1597
s/n
1597as/n
12197m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC96c/r
C‑GEQD
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
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.Seen operational in 1980. Later stored at CFB Mountain View, Ontario. Became C-GEQD, coded "5", with Province of Saskatchewan, based at La Ronge in 1992. Still in operation 1995. Stored at Abbotsford, British Columbia, in August 2007, marked C-FLRH. Reported stored at Conair at Abbotsford in 2009. Still there in August 2010. Scrapped. 2023-03-03
1960-August-31 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12197. 2019-08-20
1991-January-08 Struck off Strength 2020-07-27
Tracker 1598
s/n
1598as/n
12198m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC97c/r
C‑GEHP
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
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 2023-03-061960-August-18 First Flight by Company test pilots Mick Saunders and Fred Judges. 2023-03-04
1960-September-13 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12198. 2019-08-20
1975-June-25 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2020-10-02
Tracker 1599
s/n
1599as/n
12199m/d
S2Fc/n
DHC98c/r
C‑GEQD
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Downsview
CS2F-2 / 3 CP-121
Known 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. 2023-03-061960-September-27 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1960-October-17 First Flight by Company test pilots Mick Saunders and Wilkinson. 2023-03-04
1970-June Serial Change Became CAF 12199. 2019-08-20
1975-September-23 Struck off Strength Struck off, later sold. 2020-10-02
Tracker 1600
s/n
1600inst
733 Bm/d
S2Fc/n
DHC99c/r
C‑FUDQ
de Havilland Canada
Downsview
CS2F-2
Downsview
CS2F-2
Known 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. 2023-03-031960-October-17 First Flight by Company test pilots George Neal and Fred Judges. 2023-03-04
1960-October-28 Taken on Strength 2023-03-04
1970-January-14 Classified Instructional CA 733 B 2020-06-19
1993-June-08 Struck off Strength 2022-02-07
Tracker 136519
s/n
136519m/d
S2Fc/n
G‑428
Grumman
Bethpage NY
S2F-1
Bethpage NY
S2F-1
Known 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. 2023-03-031956-September-27 Taken on Strength 2020-09-30
1957-September-16 Struck off Strength Returned to USN 2020-09-30
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