OA-10A 44-33915 “Sophisticat” of the 5th Emergency Rescue Squadron
Aircraft Details and Markings:
- Service: 8th Air Force, specifically used by the 5th Emergency Rescue Squadron.
- Type: OA-10 Catalina, Canadian-built amphibians.
- Camouflage and Finish:
- Overall Color: White.
- Finish Type:
- Matt White: Used for most of the aircraft’s surface, providing effective camouflage against the sea during anti-submarine patrol flights.
- High-Gloss White: Applied to the under-hull, using special hard-wearing paint designed to withstand the rigors of amphibious operations and to provide durability.
This overall white finish was chosen for its effectiveness in blending the aircraft with the sea, making it less visible to enemy forces during rescue and patrol missions. The combination of matt and high-gloss finishes served both operational and practical purposes.