The T-6 is known as the Texan, Harvard, Yale, J-Bird or Mosquito.  More importantly, it is recognized as the “Pilot Maker.”  The T-6 trainer, designed by North American Aviation, was one of the most significant aircraft designs of the Second World War.  North American Aviation and foreign companies that built the T-6 under license built 17,096 Texans.

The T-6 was designed as a basic flight training aircraft.  The aircraft was used to prepare advanced student pilots for more advanced fighter and bomber aircraft.    The T-6 filled many other important military roles.  The T-6 was used as an advanced trainer, fighter, interceptor, fighter-bomber, forward air controller, and counter insurgency.

The Texan was exported widely and served with at least 55 air forces throughout the world.  The T-6 Texan served in World War II, and the Korean Conflict.  The Texan saw combat service throughout the world including, Algeria, the Congo, Biafra, the Middle East, and in South and Latin America. 

In the civilian world, the T-6 has been an air racer, air show performer, mail carrier, and tour aircraft.  Today, the T-6 Texan is still one of the most popular warbirds.