The North American SNJ Texan was one of the most important training aircraft used by the U.S. Navy during World War II and the years that followed. The Navy’s version of the famous T-6 Texan, the two-seat SNJ served as an advanced trainer for thousands of naval aviators preparing to fly high-performance fighters, dive bombers, and other combat aircraft. Its responsive handling, retractable landing gear, powerful radial engine, and cockpit controls gave student pilots valuable experience with many of the characteristics they would encounter in frontline aircraft. Instantly recognizable by its broad wings, large radial engine, and distinctive canopy, the SNJ became a familiar sight at naval air stations across the country. Its rugged construction and excellent flying qualities kept it in service for decades and helped generations of Navy pilots develop the skills they needed before advancing to operational aircraft.