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Douglas X-3 Stiletto
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The
X-3 Stiletto was designed to test features thought to be capable
of sustaining flight at supersonic speeds. The only X-3 built
first flew in 1952.
Unlike most of the other "X" aircraft
which were carried to altitude by a mother ship, the Stiletto took
off conventionally using three miles of runway. The
anticipated J46 engine did not materialize forcing the use of lower
thrust engines. This and higher than expected drag meant the
X-3 could not exceeded Mach 1 in level flight. Despite this,
the Stiletto was not a failure as the test program was able to solve
the problem of inertia-coupling. |
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| Specifications |
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 | Type: Experimental |
| Engine: two 3,370 lb (1528 kg) thrust
Westinghouse J34-WE-17 or 4,900 lbs (2222 kg) thrust with
afterburner |
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| Related
Pages |
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| Stuff
You Can Buy |
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Book:
Skystreak, Skyrocket and Stiletto: Douglas High Speed
X-Planes
Scotty Libis |
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Print:
Lakebed Liftoff
Mike Machat |
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page updated 13 February 2008
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