SERVICE SUITABILITY EVALUATION OF PROTOTYPE BEECH MODEL 385 AIR REFUELING STORE
Abstract
A suitability evaluation was conducted of a prototype Beech Aircraft Corporation (BAC) model 385 air refueling (AR) store carried on a B-26C tanker. The store, designed for use on F4H, A2F,AND A4D type airplanes, was equipped with a BAC constant drag type drogue. A total of 212 dry engagements were made with F8U, A3D, F9F, and FJ type receiver airplanes. The envelope of evaluation was restricted to 250 KIAS and altitudes below 10,000 ft because of the B-26C tanker limitations. Except for minor defirally satisfactory operational characteristics, and excellent reliability and maintainability. The vertical separation provided by the boom configuration and the excellent stability of the drogue should enhance the operational suitability of the system. The store was not cleared for flight on naval airplanes, but a fit check with A4D and F4H type tanker airplanes was demonstrated on the ground. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 20, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0277931
Entities
People
- L.f. Vogt
Organizations
- Naval Air Station Patuxent River