The US Air Force, Navy and NACA (predecessor to NASA) all invested
in this extraordinary research craft that looked like it was going
supersonic while sitting on the ground, but barely achieved it in the air.
Many new construction techniques and materials were needed to build the
X-3 to withstand its anticipated flight regime, and large amounts of
expensive titanium were used. Unfortunately, engine choice was the
Westinghouse J34, one of several turbojets built by this company that failed
to perform as advertised.
Although the airframe was designed to reach Mach 2.2, the best it ever
achieved was Mach 1.21, in a dive. This meant it achieved little towards its
objective of studying kinetic heating research. The USAF only flew the X-3
six times before handing it to NACA, who made but 20 more flights before
it wound up in a museum.
FACTS AND FIGURES
© To withstand the anticipated high
temperatures, the glazed area was
as small as possible, giving the
pilot a very restricted view.
© The X-3 was covered in strain gauges
and recording points for temperatures
and pressures. Although it only flew a
few times, useful data was gathered
and the art of building with titanium
was advanced.
© The pilot's ejection seat fired
downwards. It raised and lowered
electrically on the ground to allow
access to the cockpit.
Douglas X-3 Stiletto on YOUTUBE
