Did a Boeing P-26 fly in the Spanish Civil War?

Short answer

Yes, though not a US Army P-26 but a Model 281, the export version comparable to the P-26C, of which eleven were built for China and one for Spain. Operated by the Republican air force, it was shot down on 21 October 1936 without having scored any kills.

Published: November 5, 2026 · Updated: November 5, 2026 · Edited by Above Ten Thousand · Editorial policy

Did a Boeing P-26 fly in the Spanish Civil War?

Boeing P-26 in flight, 9 aircraft formation 060907 F-1234P 004

An export Model 281

The Model 281 was the export version of the P-26C, comparable to that variant: eleven aircraft were built for China and one for Spain. The type's origin lies in the Army Air Corps' order for three prototypes designated XP-936, which first flew on 20 March 1932.

The type's first combat

The first example of the type to see combat was a Model 281 sent to Spain before the outbreak of the Civil War. It was operated by the Spanish Republican air force and was shot down on 21 October 1936 without having scored any kills. According to the account of that day, on 21 October the Boeing, piloted by Ramón Puparelli, took off to defend the airfield against three rebel Fiat CR.32s, was shot down, and Puparelli managed to bail out in time.

Barajas and compensation for Boeing

On 10 March 1935 a second demonstration aircraft, registered X12775 and unarmed, was delivered at Madrid's Barajas airport. The Spanish Government never purchased the Model 281 and later paid Boeing $20,000 in compensation through its embassy in Paris.