Roden 619 L-19/O-1 Bird Dog 1:32

Series production of the new type, officially named the L-19/O-1 Bird Dog, began at the end of 1950, and soon the initial order of 418 units was increased to 3,600 planes, in light of its great potential. The O-1 was delivered not only to army aircraft and training departments, but also to units of the U.S. Marine Corps, where it was named the OE-1. In training units they were used purely for instrument training of pilots in flight conditions, and this variant was called the TL-19D.

The first experience of the O-1 in combat conditions during the Korean War proved that the plane could be used also as an operational trainer, using light munitions. Their main task was the marking of targets for other, more powerful strike planes using unguided rockets. Such machines, which were modified according to the new requirements, were designated TO-1A and TO-1E.

The Vietnam War, which escalated in the following decade with even greater forces engaged, once again proved the need for an aircraft of this class. The O-1 was used with great success for reconnaissance, as an artillery spotter, convoy escort, communications plane and also for light strike. During this period they received new designations as O-1F and O-1G.