OPERATIONAL DEMONSTRATION AND EVALUATION OF THE FLEXIBLE WING PRECISION DROP GLIDER IN THAILAND, MARCH-JULY 1963
Abstract
An operational demonstration and evaluation is made of the Ryan Flexible Wing Precision Drop in Thailand during March-July 1963. Thirty five drops were made. The glider is a radio-controlled aerial delivery system deployed from an aircraft with the capability of delivering a 300 lb payload to a designated landing zone at night or in all-weather conditions. The system consists of three main components: a reinforced cardboard cargo container, an aluminum control box, and a folded inflatable wing housed in the recessed center of the control box. In a packed, ready for flight condition, the system measures 24x32x48 inches and weighs approximately 386 lb. The high lift capability of the glider wing permits a 3.1 to 1 glide ratio, allowing a horizontal offset of 3.1 ft for every foot of altitude. This permits the pilot to release the cargo some distance away from the drop zone, avoiding enemy fire, unfavorable terrain, and disclosure of the position of friendly forces at the drop zone to the enemy. Horizontal offset can be increased or decreased depending on location of the drop aircraft in relation to the wind. The wing has a fixed rate of descent for a given cargo weight which can be increased by steep turns. It is about 11 ft/sec for a 300-lb payload. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1963
- Accession Number
- AD0431128
Entities
People
- William R. Quinn