In 2016 the Gulf Coast Wing of the CAF was assigned a popular World War II era twin-engine transport. Dubbed Little Raider, the aircraft is painted in crisp Navy blue and marked as a U.S. Navy JRB Expeditor. Little Raider seats six passengers in VIP comfort and has participated in the Living History Flight Experience program for six years. The sturdy transport sports an admiral’s stars and crisp Navy blue colors, and is in high demand at airshows and barnstorming events.

Our Task Ahead

Little Raider carries two Pratt & Whitney R-985 radial engines generating 450 horsepower each. Last winter, with the help of our 12 Planes supporters, we successfully replaced the right engine. It’s time now to replace the left engine, which has likewise reached its time for removal. A radial engine is an expensive proposition, costing upwards of $60,000. We are asking for donations to cover $10,000 worth of components for the new engine. Just like a car, the accessories that go with a new engine require replacement too: starter, oil cooler, carburetor, spark plugs, and more.

In the coming year, this aircraft and its stable mate, the World War II veteran SNJ advanced trainer, will develop a new performance together to offer at airshows. Dubbed “The Navy Trains for War” the performance will describe and display their contributions to aviation training during the war, including the many roles that the durable JRB played in those years as a navigation and bomber trainer.

The Gulf Coast Wing lost its marquee aircraft, the B-17 Texas Raiders a year ago in a collision. The new “Navy Trains for War” program is one way in which the Wing is working to stay relevant and focused on the mission, even in the midst of major change.

A contribution to the JRB engine fund will help us to complete all the work over the winter and if our campaign is successful, we’ll be ready to fly into action in Spring 2024 with two new engines and a new airshow performance!

Our Mission

The Gulf Coast Wing of the CAF tours routinely from April to November each year to airshows, barnstorming events, civic events, and flyovers, carrying the history of WWII military aviation to the public. We engage with ROTC units, scout troops, Civil Air Patrol, schools in support of the CAF mission to Educate, Inspire and Honor. Little Raider is wonderfully popular with the public and with the help of our supporters can continue her career bringing history to life, one amazing flight at a time.