Schweizer X-26 Frigate
The Swiss X -26 Frigate is a glider and the longest -running X program of the United States.
The X - 26A was used by the U.S. Navy to train test pilots in handling the yaw / roll coupling. Since jets are very dangerous in this state, the X -26 was developed on the basis of SGS2 Swiss -32. Gliders react much slower and are easier to control, which makes the X -26 to a much safer training aircraft. Originally four aircraft of this type were ordered. Of these three crashed, all of which were replaced by new aircraft.
The X - 26B were upgraded X - 26A, equipped with a Continental O -200A engine and a propeller. These aircraft were used to test covert reconnaissance techniques for aircraft in the Vietnam War. Two of the X - 26A was converted and successfully used in the Vietnam War. Research in this area has continued with Lockheed YQ -3A Quiet Star program, after the X - 26B were brought back to their original state.
The U.S. Navy uses the X - 26A still during the training of test pilots in the United States Naval Test Pilot School.