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Radioplane OQ-19D

In response to the U.S. Army Air Forces' requirement for fast aerial targets with which to train anti-aircraft gunners, Radioplane (a division of Northrop Aircraft Co.) developed a 200 mph class airplane in 1945. Evolved from earlier designs, such as the OQ-2A, the OQ-19 was first flight tested in 1946. It was capable of catapult launches, rotary launches from a circular runway, and air launches from a B-26C. When hit or out of fuel, the target was recovered under a 32-foot diameter parachute. Some OQ-19Ds were fitted integral flotation material to permit water recoveries.

Four men were needed to launch this target, whether by catapult or by the rotary method. A fifth man flew the target from the ground or from another aircraft. At a range of 200 yards, the OQ-19 appeared to gunners like a single-engine fighter at 500 yards. Over 10,000 OQ-19s were built for the USAF between 1955-1958. Of the four models, the OQ-19D was the largest and fastest. 

The OQ-19D on display was donated in 1960 by C.E. Manning of Sidney, Ohio, and it was prepared for display by the Naval Air Reserve Detachment in Columbus, Ohio.

TECHNICAL NOTES:
Engine: 72 hp McCulloch O-100-1
Maximum speed: 228 mph
Endurance: 90 min. at sea level
Ceiling: 25,000 ft. 
Span: 11 ft. 5 in.
Length: 12 ft. 3 in.
Height: 2 ft. 7 in.
Weight: 319 lbs. maximum


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