Piper Super Cub

The Piper PA-18 Super Cub is a direct descendant of the original J-3 Cub which was famously used throughout the Second World War as an artillery spotting and liaison aircraft. The Super Cub differs from the original Cub through the addition of an electrical system, a far more powerful engine and a flaps system allowing the type to retain its superb short take- off and landing capability. Over 10,000 Super Cubs were produced up until the production line closed in 1994 including specialist versions equipped with floats for operating off water. The Super Cub remains popular as a bush aircraft to this day in Alaska. In military service, the Super Cub was designated in US military service as the L-18 and L-21 until it was standardised as the U-7 in the 1960s. In total the Super Cub served with the military of 21 nations around the globe. In Italian military service, the Super Cub was typically used a forward air controller guiding in air strikes on to targets on the battlefield. A single privately owned Super Cub will be appearing at RIAT25 as part of our ‘Eyes in the Skies’ theme recognising the forward air controller mission this type flew. The aircraft will be in Italian markings.

Photo Credit: Joe Ruscoe