CAC's (Commonwealth
Aircraft Corp.) first in-house design resulted from a 1938 decision to
obtain a low wing monoplane trainer because that was the configuration
most future RAAF aircraft would have. CAC was awarded a contract to
build two CA-2 prototypes in October 1938, powered by 130hp DH Gipsy
major engines. The first aircraft made its maiden flight in October
1939, and the second was handed over to the RAAF in March 1940. Both
aircraft were later re-engined with the 200 hp Gipsy Six.
Production aircraft were designated
CA-6 and due to unavailability of Gypsy engines were fitted with 175 hp
Warner Scarab radials. This was tested in one of the prototypes during
1940 and found to be satisfactory. CA-6 deliveries began in March 1941
and were completed by April 1942. Serial numbers were A3-1 to A3-200.
The two CA-2 prototypes were re-serialed A3-1001 and 1002 to avoid
duplication.
TECHNICAL DATA
(CAC CA-2 and CA-6 Wackett)
DESCRIPTION: Two seat intermediate
trainer
IN SERVICE: 1941 to 1946
POWER PLANT: One 175 hp Warner Scarab
radial
WEIGHTS: Empty 1,910 lbs (866 kg),
Loaded 2,592 lbs (1,176 kg)
DIMENSIONS: Wingspan 37 ft 0 in (11.28
m), Length 26 ft 0 in (7.92 m), Height 6 ft 9 in (2.06 m)
PERFORMANCE: Max Speed 95 kts (177 kmh),
Service Ceiling 16,000 ft (4,877 m), Range 369 nm (684 km)
ARMAMENT: None
details from
RAAF
Museum |