Douglas XCG-17

The Douglas XCG -17 ( also known as the XCG -47 ) was an American prototype, the C-47 Skytrain was built as a single specimen for experimental purposes at the Douglas Warcraft Company in Long Beach by the conversion of a twin-engine aircraft the Douglas series. The United States Army Air Forces was testing this prototype in 1946, which should be used as a so-called Assault Glider as a troop transport for combat. The first flight took place on 17 June 1946.

History

For simple attempt at a C-47 Skytrain were expanded, the two engines with the registration N69030 and the engine nacelles closed by an aerodynamic hood. The Air Force planned to use the CG -17 on the plane towing of the Philippine island of Luzon from Tokyo in Japan. This flight was intended to prove the suitability of large gliders for troop transport during towing. After the first test flights, the configuration of the XCG -17 was, however, back up in August 1946 in a C -47 Skytrain. A series production did not take place.

Specifications

The cargo hold of the XCG -17 had a loading capacity of 6,800 kg and this corresponded to an alternative transportation option of around 40 fully equipped troops.

  • Crew: 4 (pilot, co- pilot, navigator, radio operator )
  • Capacity: 40 troops or payload of 6800 kg
  • Length: 19.43 m
  • Wingspan: 29.41 m
  • Height: 5.18 m
  • Wing area: 91,70 m²
  • Maximum takeoff weight: about 15,000 kg
  • Top speed 290 mph ( 467 km / h ) maximum towing speed
  • Cruising speed: 305 km / h in aircraft towing
  • Stall: 56 km / h
  • Best glide ratio: 1: 14
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