Operational Suitability Test of the RB-57A Aircraft
Abstract
The RB-57A is a night visual and photographic reconnaissance plane which is powered by two J-65-BW-5 axial-flow turbojet engines. The plane is suitable for day topographic mapping. The length and wing span of the plane are 65.5 and 64 ft, respectively. Two tandem camera stations are located in air-conditioned spaces aft of the rotary bomb-bay door. The forward station contains a split-vertical installation of two K37 cameras for low-altitude night photography with photoflash-cartridge illumination or a split-vertical installation of two K-38 cameras (24-in. focal length) for day photography. The aft camera station contains a vertical installation for one K-37 camera for medium-and high-altitude night photography with M-120 photoflash-bomb illumination or one daylight T-11 camera (6-in. focal length). Photoflash bombs (21) are carried internally on the rotary bomb door. The RB-57A is suitable for night photographic operations when operating within 155 statue mi or less from ground radar or shoran installations. Although suitable for night photographic operation at ranges commensureate with its radius of action, the aircraft will require an improved navigation system for precision positioning at these ranges. The aircraft nose position is unsuitable for use in visual observation or pilotage navigation. The photographic control system is too inflexible. The RB-57A is a suitable camera platform for use with its standard camera configuration. The RB-57A cartridge starter is unreliable and hazardous to ground personnel. Only minor maintenance, material, and personnel adjustments to the using organization will be required for this aircraft.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 14, 1954
- Accession Number
- AD0046931
Entities
Organizations
- Air Armament Center