Strategy, Tactical, Leadership, and Technology

The SBD-2 entered service in early 1941 and was in frontline service from early 1941 to late 1942 before being replaced by the SBD-3. It continued to be used in training and secondary roles beyond this period. Improvements included additional armor and self-sealing fuel tanks. The Wright R-1820-32 radial engine continued to be used but with improved performance and reliability. Same as the SBD-1, with two .30-caliber wing guns and one .50-caliber rear gun. Bomb load capacity remained at 1,200 pounds. Additional armor protection should be introduced, including thicker armor plating around the pilot and engine and self-sealing fuel tanks to improve survivability. Improved canopy design for better visibility, though still framed. Slightly refined aerodynamics and structural improvements over the SBD-1 for better performance in dive bombing. Slight refinements in the airframe to improve stability and handling during dive bombing. Strengthening the airframe to handle increased stress from dive bombing. Improved canopy design for better visibility and aerodynamics.