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Bug

Dayton-Wright Company · Missile · United States · Pioneer Age (pre-1919)

Bug — Missile
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The Kettering Bug was an experimental unmanned aerial torpedo, a forerunner of present-day cruise missiles. It was capable of striking ground targets up to 75 miles (121 km) from its launch point, while traveling at speeds of 50 miles per hour (80 km/h). A successful test flight was made in October 1918. The Bug's costly design and operation inspired Dr. Henry W. Walden to create a rocket that would allow a pilot to control the rocket after launch with the use of radio waves. The British radio controlled weapons of 1917 were secret at this time. These designs were forerunners of modern-day missiles.

Specifications

Category
Missiles
Sub-Category
Surface-to-Surface
Domain
Defence
Era
Pioneer Age (pre-1919)
Country
United States
Manufacturer
Dayton-Wright Company
Primary Role
Missile
Service Entry
1918
Engine
1× piston engine
Thrust / Power
40 hp (30 kW)
Length (ft)
12
Wingspan (ft)
15
MTOW (lb)
530
Range (mi)
75
Max Speed (mph)
120