military-aircraft-f7u-1t

Despite its variable incidence wing, which in the fully raised position gave pilots an excellent view while keeping speed to a minimum during carrier operations, the F8U Crusader naval air superiority fighter presented new pilots with some difficulties. As The US Navy realized, the best solution was a conversion trainer model. After serving as the prototype for the improved F8U-2NE (later F8E) , one F8U-1 was converted into a two seat with dual controls and the instructor seated behind and 15 in above the pupil in the front seat. The modification entailed the removal of two of the four cannon, but the type otherwise retained full combat capability. When first flown in February 1962 this conversion was designated the XF8U-1T, but soon became The F8U-1T and finally the TF-8A. an order was placed for 12 production aircraft to the same standard, but by the time the navy was becoming more concerned with the forthcoming McDonnell F4H (F4) Phantom II as its premier fighter, and the order was cancelled. The aircraft later went to NASA as the NTF-8A. It is worth noting that the TF-8A designation was also used for F-8A aircraft used as advanced trainer.

Description	Specifications
Manufacturer: Vought	Length: 54 ft. 6 in.
First Flight: February 1962	Height: 15 ft. 9 in.
Model: F8U-1T	Wing Span: 35 ft. 2 in.
Crew: Two	Wing Area: 350.0 sq. ft.
Nickname: Crusader	Empty Weight:
Basic Role: Carrier borne operational conversion trainer.	Max. Weight: 28,000 lb.
Other Versions: XF8U-1T Sole prototype.	Armament: Two 20-mm cannon and up to disposable stores.
Principal User: USA	Propulsion
Performance	Power Plant: Pratt & Whitney J57-P-20A turbojet.
Range: 1,100 miles.	Horsepower: 18,000-lb reheated thrust.
Max. Speed: 1,135 mph. or mach 1.75 at 36,000 ft.	No. Of Engines: One
Ceiling: 40,000 ft.
Climb Rate: 36, 000 ft. per minute.