R3Y-2
The idea of using large assault transport seaplanes received considerable attention by the Navy Secretariat - a sort of "flying LST." But like the helicopter, a seaplane of the size needed for carrying troops and their equipment was not in existence in 1946. The Secretariat, nevertheless, concluded that a mixture of these large flying boats and helicopters would be the most promising combination, with the helicopter appearing to be the real answer to the amphibious prayer.
The assault seaplane concept had resulted in an engineering study contract being awarded for a "flying LST" to the Consolidated Vultee Corporation, San Diego, California. It was considered that any new programs could not be approved at that time for it would require th e expenditure of additional money when the Navy was still faced with a cut-back in funds for new aircraft procurement.
Eleven R3Y Tradewind aircraft were built, of which six were front-loading R3Y-2 aircraft with a hinged nose and high cockpit; they were intended to be a Flying LST (landing craft). In practice, it was discovered that it was almost impossible for the pilots to hold the aircraft steady and nose on to the beach while the aircraft was loaded or unloaded. The aircraft were converted into tankers for the in-flight refuelling role.
On 04 October 1954 recruits of Platoon 348 landed on Coronado Beach, California from the Convair R3Y-2 (Flying LST) marking the first time the huge flying boat was used for beaching troops and equipment.
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