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History of the L-4 Grasshopper
Modified from the Piper J-3 Cub, the L-4 was a light observation and liaison aircraft adapted for military use during World War II. Its primary role was airborne artillery, which required the L-4 to fly over battlefields, observe, spot enemy artillery and troop positions and radio the information to Allied Ground Forces who then directed artillery or air strikes on the enemy. These aircraft served in all theaters of World War II, as well as in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
Piper L-4J Grasshopper
Serial Number: 45-4655
Manufacturer: Piper Aircraft, Inc.
Crew: One or two
Engines: One Continental A65 four-cylinder reciprocating; 65 horsepower
Wingspan: 35 feet 3 inches
Length: 22 feet 5 inches
Height: 6 feet 8 inches
Weight: 680 pounds (empty); 1,200 pounds (maximum)
Speed: 75 mph (cruising); 85 mph (maximum)
Range: 190 miles
Service Ceiling: 11,500 feet
Armament: None
Cost: $2,600
The L-4J Grasshopper at Hill Air Force Base
In 1949, the L-4s were among the many aircraft that were repaired and modified at Hill Air Force Base. A few years late, they were stored on the installation after the Korean War. The L-4J on display was manufactured in 1945 and served the 15th Air Force in Bari, Italy. That same year, the aircraft returned to the United States (US) and served on several different bases and training commands. Due to a flying accident in 1952, the aircraft was dropped from active US Air Force inventory and was later acquired by Hill Aerospace Museum for display.