Often called the “forgotten godfather” of modern ground attack planes such as the A-10 Thunderbolt II (or “Warthog”), the XA-38 showcased advanced concepts in firepower and speed.
The Beechcraft XA-38 Grizzly, sometimes known as the “Destroyer,” stands as a fascinating chapter in aviation history—a World War II ground attack aircraft that promised unparalleled firepower, but never saw combat.
Developed by Beechcraft at the height of the war, this twin-engine beast was meant to obliterate hardened targets like tanks, bunkers, and coastal shipping. Though it excelled in testing, shifting priorities and engine shortages doomed the bird to prototype status.
The XA-38 Grizzly’s Specifications
- Year Introduced: Never introduced (prototype only)
- Number Built: 2 (prototypes)
- Length: 51 ft 9 in (15.8 m)
- Height: 15 ft 6 in (4.7 m)
- Wingspan: 67 ft 4 in (20.5 m)
- Weight:
- 22,480 lb (10,197 kg) empty
- 35,265 lb (15,996 kg) MTOW
- Engines: Two Wright R-3350-43 air-cooled radial engines (2,300 hp each)
- Top Speed: 370 mph (595 km/h)
- Range: 1,625 mi (2,615 km)
- Service Ceiling: 29,000 ft (8,839 m)
- Loadout: 75mm T15E1 cannon; two forward .50-caliber M2 Browning machine guns; two aft .50-caliber M2 Browning machine guns in remote-controlled dorsal and ventral turrets
- Aircrew: 2 (pilot + observer/gunner)
The Grizzly’s Short History
Development of the Beechcraft XA-38 began in December 1942, when the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) awarded Beechcraft a contract for two prototypes of their Model 28 “Destroyer.” Initially conceived as a bomber-destroyer, this project evolved into a dedicated ground attack platform to replace the aging Douglas A-20 Havoc. Beechcraft, better known for its trainers and light aircraft, stepped up to create a machine that combined the size of a medium bomber with the agility of a fighter.
The Grizzly was envisioned for low-level strikes, packing enough punch to decimate armored vehicles and fortifications in the Pacific Theater. At the heart of its design was its robust airframe and formidable armament. The Grizzly’s low-wing monoplane configuration and all-metal construction gave it considerable durability in combat.
Flight testing commenced on May 7, 1944, with Beech test pilot Vern Carstens flying off from Wichita Airfield. The prototypes performed exceptionally, exceeding expectations in speed, reliability, and serviceability. USAAF pilots flew the aircraft, and military crews maintained it without issues. The 75mm cannon proved effective against armor targets, firing shells that could penetrate thick plating.
Despite these successes, however, the XA-38 never progressed beyond prototypes. The primary reasons for cancellation were timing and resource allocation. By late 1944, the war’s trajectory had shifted; the planned invasion of Japan loomed, but the Grizzly was not ready for mass production. Critically, its R-3350 engines were prioritized for the Boeing B-29 Superfortress, a strategic bomber essential for long-range Pacific operations. With engine supplies diverted, the XA-38 program was axed in 1945, with only two prototypes built.
The “Forgotten Grandfather” of Modern Attack Aircraft
Beechcraft XA-38 Grizzly’s legacy endures as a “what if” in military aviation. Often called the “forgotten godfather” of modern ground attack planes such as the A-10 Thunderbolt II (or “Warthog”), the XA-38 showcased advanced concepts in firepower and speed. Had it entered service, the Grizzly might have reshaped the battles of World War II.
Today, it captivates historians and modelers, symbolizing untapped potential in Beechcraft’s destroyer design. For those exploring World War II prototypes or ground attack aircraft, the XA-38 remains a testament to innovation cut short by the war’s demands.
About the Author: Brandon J. Weichert
Brandon J. Weichert is a senior national security editor at The National Interest. Recently, Weichert became the host of The National Security Hour on America Outloud News and iHeartRadio, where he discusses national security policy every Wednesday at 8pm Eastern. He is also a contributor at Popular Mechanics and has consulted regularly with various government institutions and private organizations on geopolitical issues. Weichert’s writings have appeared in multiple publications, including The Washington Times, National Review, The American Spectator, MSN, The Asia Times, and others. His books include Winning Space: How America Remains a Superpower, Biohacked: China’s Race to Control Life, and The Shadow War: Iran’s Quest for Supremacy. His newest book, A Disaster of Our Own Making: How the West Lost Ukraine is available for purchase wherever books are sold. He can be followed via Twitter @WeTheBrandon.
Image: Wikimedia Commons.
