AMO 1419 "Buffalo" XC-8A

De Havilland Canada DHC-5 Buffalo has been developed on the basis of DHC-4 Caribou. The aircraft had larger fuselage if compared to its prototype. It conducted its first flight on April 9th, 1964 US army for test flights ordered four machines. The aircraft has received initial designation C-8A. After the test program, Canadian Air Force ordered 15 aircraft DHC-5A (CC-115). Six of them were used for navy patrol. Some aircraft were built for the air forces of Brazil and Peru. In 1974 the production of the new modification DHC-5D started. This type had more powerful engines and improved flying parameters. The production of Buffalos ceased in 1982. Aircraft DHC-5D were supplied to the air force of Cameroon (3 machines), Ecuador (3 machines), Egypt (10) and some other countries.

Early in 1970, ground and flight tests of tactical military transport aircraft XC-8A Buffalo were underwent on the Wright-Patterson Air Force base, Ohio State, against joint contract between USAF and the Ministry of Canadian Trade and Industry. XC-8A Buffalo was equipped with a special air cushion landing system. The 40-monthly aircraft test program was finished in May 1977. The air cushion landing system was designed, manufactured and mounted by Bell Aerospace Company.