X-26A high performance glider |
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Description
The X-26A is a two-seat, high performance glider used to train pilots in flying qualities at the USN Test Pilot School, Patuxent River, MD. These aircraft are used to help increase the students' knowledge of the dynamics of flight. The only "lift" the gliders get is from a combination of an initial tow by one of the school's two U-6A Beavers and the pilot's skill. |
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Features
The X-26 program is among the smallest and more secretive of the X-plane programs, and comparatively little is known of its history or accomplishments. The X-26A was a stock Schweizer SGS 2-32 sailplane used by the Navy to expose novice pilots to the phenomenon of yaw/roll coupling. At least 3 of the X-26A's were destroyed in accidents, and one remaining X-26A is housed at the Army Aviation Museum, Fort Rucker, Alabama. The final examples of this un-powered glider continue in use at the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School (TPS). |
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Background
The X-26 program is among the smallest and more secretive of the X-plane programs, and comparatively little is known of its history or accomplishments. The X-26A was a stock Schweizer SGS 2-32 sailplane used by the Navy to expose novice pilots to the phenomenon of yaw/roll coupling. At least 3 of the X-26As were destroyed in accidents, and one remaining X-26A is housed at the Army Aviation Museum, Fort Rucker, Alabama. The final examples of this un-powered glider continue in use at the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School (TPS). |
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Service
Navy |
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Point Of Contact
Naval Air Systems Command
Public Affairs Department
47123 Buse Road, Unit IPT
Bldg. 2272, Suite 075
Patuxent River, MD 20670-5440
(301) 757-1487 |
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General Characteristics
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| Primary Function: Training glider for the USN Test Pilot School |
| Contractor: Schweizer Aircraft |
| Date Deployed: 1962 |
| Propulsion: None |
| Length: 26 feet 9 inches |
| Height: 9 feet 3 inches |
| Wingspan: 57 feet 1.5 inches |
| Weight: 857 pounds, empty; 1,430 pounds, gross |
| Airspeed: 158 miles per hour |
| Ceiling: 18,500 feet |
| Crew: Two |
| Armament: None |
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| Last Update: 18 February 2009 |
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