The Early Cold War
Naval Aviation

Between 1946 and 1970, Canada's navy operated three aircraft carriers to help fulfil its anti-submarine mission and to help protect ships against enemy aircraft. These carriers required specialized equipment, procedures, and training for their crews.

Grumman Avenger Landing Aboard HMCS Warrior

In this photograph, a Grumman Avenger is about to land on the aircraft carrier HMCS Warrior.

The Avenger's pilot has lowered the aircraft's landing gear, along with a hook hanging down below its tail. The hook is designed to catch one of several arrester cables, stretching across the carrier's flight deck (centre), that bring aircraft to a rapid halt. A plane guard destroyer (right) stands by to rescue the crew in case of a landing accident. The aircraft is likely American because the Royal Canadian Navy did not operate Avengers at the time Warrior was in Canadian service.

George Metcalf Archival Collection
CWM 19910238-685