The Lockheed Model 33 Little Dipper, also known as Air Trooper, was an innovative single-seat monoplane designed by John Thorp and built by Lockheed in Burbank, California. Originally conceived as a two-seat light aircraft, the Model 33 flew for the first time in April 1944 after two prototypes were authorized due to wartime restrictions. Despite its impressive performance, including successful landings and take-offs in the Pentagon courtyard, the Army canceled the program before the second prototype was completed, losing interest in the concept.
Lockheed intended to market the type as an inexpensive light aircraft on the civilian market as the Little Dipper. However, with the military interest gone, the prototype and partially completed second aircraft were scrapped in January 1947. Nonetheless, the Model 33 remains an important example of aviation innovation and ingenuity.
