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Nord Aviation CT20

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Top speed
  
900 km/h

Wingspan
  
3.16 m

First flight
  
1955

Length
  
5.45 m

Introduced
  
1957

Manufacturer
  
Nord Aviation

Nord Aviation CT20 httpsuploadwikimediaorgwikipediacommonsthu

The Nord Aviation CT20 was a French turbojet-powered radio-controlled target drone introduced in 1957. Developed from the Arsenal / S.F.E.C.M.A.S. T.5.510, the CT.20 was built by Nord Aviation and powered by a Turbomeca Marboré II engine, providing a top speed of 900 km/h (560 mph; 490 kn) and a flying time of 55 to 60 minutes. It has been noted for its similarity to the Ryan Firebee. The unmanned drone was used in the development of air-to-air missiles following the Second World War.

Contents

After the startup of the turbojet, the target drone is placed on a ramp and launched using two rockets. During its flight, the drone is controlled via radio signals from the ground. As it is made of light material, it is buoyant in water and can be recovered if it is forced to land on water.

Variants

Arsenal T.5.510 / S.F.E.C.M.A.S. T.5.510
Original design work and development of the CT.20 carried out before SFECMAS was absorbed by SNCAN.
CT20
Radio controlled target
R20
Battlefield reconnaissance drone. 62 built for French Army.
SAAB Rb 08
Anti-ship missile (AShM) version of CT20 for Royal Swedish Navy. 68 built.

Specifications (CT.20)

Data from Jane's All The World's Aircraft 1976–77

General characteristics

  • Crew: 0
  • Length: 5.45 m (17 ft 11 in)
  • Wingspan: 3.16 m (10 ft 4 in)
  • Wing area: 3.20 m2 (34.4 sq ft)
  • Empty weight: 490 kg (1,080 lb)
  • Max takeoff weight: 660 kg (1,455 lb)
  • Powerplant: 1 × Turbomeca Marboré II turbojet, 3.92 kN (880 lbf) thrust

    • Performance

  • Maximum speed: 900 km/h (559 mph; 486 kn)
  • Maximum speed: Mach 0.85
  • Endurance: 50 min
  • Service ceiling: 12,000 m (39,000 ft)
  • Time to altitude: 10,000 m (32,800 ft) in 6 min

    • References

    Nord Aviation CT20 Wikipedia
    (Text) CC BY-SA