| Aircraft | |
|---|---|
| Registration / Serial: | 46-677 |
| Alternate Serial: | 6677 |
| Aircraft Original Type: | Northrop X-4 |
| Aircraft Generic Type: | Northrop X-4 |
| Aircraft Version: | Northrop X-4 |
| C/n (msn): | 3238 |
| Operator Titles: | USA - Air Force |
| Location | |
|---|---|
| City / Airport: | Dayton - Wright-Patterson AFB / Wright AFBMap |
| Region / Country: | Ohio, United States |
| Airport Codes: | ICAO: KDWF IATA: - Local: DWF Other: - |
| Collection: | National Museum of the United States Air Force |
| Photo Date: | 16 December 2024 |
| Photo by: | Richard Vandervord |
| Photo ID: | 829667 |
| Photo Comment |
|---|
|
Flight testing of the X-4 Bantam began in 1948, the design having been inspired by German WWII research and developments, with both examples constructed being passed to the NACA (National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics) in 1950. The first X-4 was grounded after only 10 flights and the second (seen here) was used in the joint USAF/NACA program which ended in 1953. Instability at high speed led to the conclusion that semi-tailless aircraft were not suitable for transonic flight with the technology then available. It now hangs in the fascinating Research & Development Gallery This photo is copyright © Richard Vandervord, and may not be used or published in any way without permission. It was added on 28 July 2025, and has since been viewed 17 times. |