WWII Warbird Collection: TBM Avenger Torpedo Bomber

History of the TBM Avenger Torpedo Bomber

The TBM Avenger was one of the most important torpedo bombers of World War II. Originally developed by Grumman as the TBF to replace the outdated Douglas Devastator, the Avenger first entered U.S. Navy service in 1942. Its combat debut came during the Battle of Midway, where five out of six aircraft were shot down during an unescorted attack. Despite the rough start, the Avenger soon proved itself to be highly effective, becoming the standard torpedo bomber for the Navy and Marine Corps.

Grumman built the initial TBF models, but soon shifted focus to fighter production. The Eastern Aircraft Division of General Motors took over, producing over 7,500 Avengers under the TBM designation. In total, nearly 9,900 Avengers were built, serving in the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Allied forces. With a bomb or torpedo capacity of up to 2,500 pounds and a crew of three, the Avenger was a powerful and versatile aircraft. It was also the largest single-engine aircraft to serve on aircraft carriers during the war.

While designed as a torpedo bomber, the TBM Avenger was used in many roles including close air support, reconnaissance, patrol, light cargo, and antisubmarine warfare. Its ability to operate from smaller escort carriers made it especially valuable in the Pacific and Atlantic theaters.

One of the most famous Avenger pilots was future U.S. President George H. W. Bush, who was shot down during a mission over Chichi Jima in 1944 but survived after being rescued at sea.

After the war, Avengers were adapted for civilian use, including as agricultural sprayers and firefighting aircraft, remaining in service into the 1970s. Known for its durability and versatility, the TBM Avenger remains an iconic symbol of WWII aviation history.