PZL M18 Dromader (Croatian Air Force)

PZL M18 “Dromader” (Croatian Air Force) NOTES: -When starting the engine (HOLD X) it is important that the gear is in the “1” position. -This aircraft is equipped with so-called boiler bombs from gas cylinders filled with explosives. CONTROL -Engine start: hold X (gear must be in position “1”) -Boiler bombs: Fire Action 1 (first click drops the left bomb, second click drops the right one) -Lights: L -Landing lights: B -flaps: K HISTORY IN BRIEF The PZL M18 Dromader is a single-engine, all-metal agricultural and firefighting aircraft. The Dromader is mainly designed for agro-aircraft treatment of large agricultural areas (crop spraying/dusting and fertilization) and firefighting of forests, brush and crops. The prototype was flown in 1976 and the first serial Dromaders were produced in 1979. The Mielec factory produced 759 M18 aircraft, sold to 24 countries around the world. MILITARY USE BY CROATIA During the Croatian War of Independence, this versatile aircraft was repurposed for military use due to its robust construction and ability to carry heavy payloads. Although it was not intended for combat, the Dromader proved invaluable in the early stages of the war when Croatia had limited access to conventional military equipment. Adaptations included equipping the Dromader with bomb racks to carry improvised munitions, effectively transforming it into a light bomber. It was used to support ground troops by delivering explosives against enemy positions, an unusual role for an aircraft of its type. TAGS:polish,poland,croatia,aircraft,plane,bomber,attacker,military,balkans,yugoslavia