Which of the following was a dive bomber?

The Dauntless was a prominent dive bomber used during World War II, specifically known for its effectiveness in the Pacific Theater. It was designed to deliver payloads directly onto enemy targets from a steep dive, which required precision flying and significant skill from its pilots. The aircraft's design included a reinforced airframe capable of withstanding the stresses of a dive, along with a dive brake system to control its descent speed.

The Dauntless played a pivotal role in several key battles, including the Battle of Midway, where its ability to accurately strike enemy ships contributed significantly to the U.S. Navy's success. Its legacy as a reliable and effective dive bomber solidifies its status in aviation history.

The other aircraft listed have different operational roles. The Avenger served primarily as a torpedo bomber, the Wildcat was a fighter aircraft, and the Thunderbolt was a fighter-bomber, designed for ground attack rather than dive bombing missions.