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Northrop X-21A
Northrop · Laminar Flow Control Research · USA · Early Jet (1946–1969)
The Northrop X-21A was an experimental aircraft designed to test wings with laminar flow control. It was based on the Douglas WB-66D airframe, with the wing-mounted engines moved to the rear fuselage and making space for air compressors. The aircraft first flew on 18 April 1963 with NASA test pilot Jack Wells at the controls. Although useful testing was accomplished, the extensive maintenance requirements of the intricate laminar-flow system caused the end of the program.
Specifications
- Category
- Fixed Wing
- Sub-Category
- Experimental
- Domain
- Dual-Use
- Era
- Early Jet (1946–1969)
- Country
- USA
- Manufacturer
- Northrop
- Operator
- USAF
- Primary Role
- Laminar Flow Control Research
- Status
- Retired
- Service Entry
- 1963
- Produced
- 2
- Propulsion
- Electric
- Engine
- 2x General Electric J79-GE-13 turbojet
- Thrust / Power
- 34,000 lbf total
- Launch
- Ground
- Length (ft)
- 64
- Wingspan (ft)
- 156
- MTOW (lb)
- 75000
- Endurance (hr)
- 4
- Service Ceiling (ft)
- 42000
- Range (mi)
- 2500
- Max Speed (mph)
- 475