Douglas
X-3
Stiletto
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Photo: Robert Deering 1985
National Museum of the USAF
Dayton, Ohio
The twin-turbojet X-3, the only one built, was designed to test features of an aircraft suitable for sustained flights at supersonic speeds and high altitudes. A secondary mission was to investigate the use of new materials such as titanium and to explore new construction techniques.

The X-3 made its first test flight at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., on Oct. 20, 1952, and flew supersonically in June 1953. Unlike the X-1, X-2 and X-15, which were released in mid-air from a "mother plane," the X-3 operated in a more conventional manner by taking off from the ground. Engine development difficulties forced the use of lower powered engines than originally planned, prohibiting the X-3 program from achieving its design potential; however, data gained from the X-3 program was of great benefit in the development of the F-104, X-15, SR-71 and other high performance aircraft.

The X-3 was transferred to the National Museum of the United States Air Force in 1956.
SPECIFICATIONS: PERFORMANCE:
Span:  22 ft. 8 in. Maximum speed:  Designed for Mach 2
Length:  66 ft. 10 in. Cruising speed:  Not applicable
Height:  12 ft. 6 in. Range:  Not applicable
Empty Weight:  Service ceiling:  38,000 ft.
Gross Weight:  22,400 lbs. maximum  
Crew: 
Engines:  Two Westinghouse J-34s of 3,370 lbs. thrust each (4,900 lbs. thrust with afterburner)
Armament:  None
   
SOURCE:  National Museum of the United States Air Force