<article><hdr>Airborne shot of a B-26 Invader</hdr><body>
<hi style=afpcap>The Douglas Invader was designed to meet an urgent USAAF requirement for a medium range, fast attack bomber. Designated the A-26, the aircraft reached production very quickly and began combat operations in Europe in 1944. Deliveries to the Pacific theatre followed shortly afterwards, with huge numbers on order when the Japanese surrendered. These were cancelled, although the A-26 (later redesignated as the B-26) remained in active duty and reserve service. Many were returned to combat operations during the Korean War.</hi>
