X-7 RAMJET TEST VEHICLE.

Abstract

The X-7A Project required the development of a flying test bed for any of several ramjet engines capable of self-sustained flight between Mach numbers 1.7 and 3.0, and altitudes from sea level to 80,000 feet. The vehicle is air-launched, boosted to flight speed, and recovered by means of parachutes and a ground penetration spike. Preliminary design studies, begun in July 1947, culminated in a vehicle configuration which embodies a tapered straight wing and conventional tail surface arrangement, and provides a readily interchangeable installation for any of several ramjet engines. Wind-tunnel investigations, model tests, and 1/3-scale model boosted free flight tests were conducted in the process of development. Production of full-scale vehicles and boosters was begun in early 1950. Full-scale flight tests were begun in 1951 and thirty-six boosted flights (including three with boost test vehicles) have been completed in this program.

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jul 01, 1955
Accession Number
AD0805804

Entities

Organizations

  • Lockheed Martin

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Launched
  • Flight
  • Flight Speeds
  • Free Flight
  • Mach Number
  • Model Tests
  • Ramjet Engines
  • Ramjet Test Vehicles
  • Scale Models
  • Sea Level
  • Test Beds
  • Test Vehicles
  • Vehicles
  • Wind Tunnels

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Aerodynamics/Aeronautics.
  • Aerospace Test and Evaluation
  • Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) Technology.