Nord Aviation CT20 explained
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 900km/h 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.[1]
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.[2]
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.[3]
- 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.See also
Notes and References
- Web site: https://web.archive.org/web/20070103022918/http://www.vectorsite.net/twuav_03.html. International Target Drones . 3 January 2007. Greg . Goebel .
- Web site: List du matériel: Nord CT20. Conservatoire Air Espace d'Aquitaine. 17 August 2016.
- Book: Bridgman, Leonard. Jane's all the World's Aircraft 1955–56. 1955. Jane's all the World's Aircraft Publishing Co. Ltd.. London.
