Strategy, Tactical, Leadership, and Technology

The Lockheed Hudson I was the initial production version of the Hudson light bomber and maritime patrol aircraft, adapted from the Lockheed Model 14 Super Electra airliner. Ordered by the Royal Air Force in 1938, it became one of the first American-built combat aircraft to see widespread service in World War II. Known in U.S. Army Air Corps designation as the A-29, the Hudson I played a vital role in coastal defense, anti-submarine warfare, and reconnaissance in the early years of the conflict.

Development and Role

In 1938, the RAF urgently required modern patrol bombers to replace aging Avro Ansons in Coastal Command. Lockheed responded by modifying its Model 14 transport into a militarized aircraft with bomb bays, defensive armament, and reconnaissance equipment. The resulting Hudson I retained the airliner’s speed and handling but carried additional fuel and military equipment.

Primary roles of the Hudson I included:

• Coastal patrol and reconnaissance over the North Sea and Atlantic approaches

• Anti-submarine warfare (ASW), using depth charges and bombs against U-boats

• Maritime strike missions, targeting enemy shipping lanes

• Training and secondary transport duties as the war progressed

The Hudson was particularly valued for its range, speed, and ruggedness compared to earlier patrol types.

Powerplant and Enhancements

• Engines: Two Wright R-1820-G102A Cyclone 9-cylinder radial engines rated at 1,100 hp each

• Performance: Max speed of around 246 mph, ceiling of 25,000 ft, and range of about 1,960 miles

• Enhancements from civilian base design:
  Strengthened fuselage with internal bomb bay
  Armament installations, including nose and dorsal guns
  Expanded fuel capacity for maritime patrol endurance

These changes transformed a fast civil transport into a capable light bomber and patrol aircraft.

Configuration and Equipment

• Crew: Typically 5–6 (pilot, co-pilot, navigator/bombardier, radio operator, gunners)

• Cockpit and cabin: Dual-control cockpit with modified nose for bombing/navigation

• Armament:
  Two fixed forward-firing .303 in Browning machine guns in the nose
  One dorsal turret with two .303 in Brownings
  Provision for up to 1,400 lb of bombs or depth charges

• External modifications: Glass nose for bombardier/navigator and ventral gun position on some aircraft

The Hudson was well-armed for its size and class, giving it a defensive advantage in patrol roles.

Operational Use

The Hudson I entered RAF service in 1939 and was immediately employed in maritime reconnaissance and patrol missions. Early wartime operations included:

• The first RAF aircraft to sink a German U-boat (U-27, September 1939)

• Escort and patrol missions over the North Sea and Bay of Biscay

• Convoy protection, often deterring U-boat attacks

• Use by other Allied air arms, including the RAAF, RNZAF, and RCAF, for coastal defense

The Hudson I established the type’s reputation for reliability and effectiveness, paving the way for later, improved Hudson marks.

Crew Experience

Crews appreciated the Hudson’s speed and handling compared to older biplane patrol aircraft, as well as its relatively modern cockpit layout. Its ability to defend itself with multiple machine guns increased survivability, though the type remained vulnerable to heavily armed enemy fighters. Despite limitations in payload compared to larger patrol bombers, the Hudson was regarded as a dependable and versatile aircraft.

Conclusion

The Lockheed Hudson I marked the beginning of America’s direct material contribution to the Allied war effort before the U.S. formally entered the conflict. As the first production version of the Hudson, it provided the RAF with a fast, reliable patrol bomber capable of taking the fight to the enemy in the early, uncertain days of World War II. Its success ensured continued production and adaptation into later variants, solidifying the Hudson’s place as a cornerstone of early Allied maritime air power.