Chrysler VZ-6

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Chrysler VZ-6

The Chrysler VZ-6 was an American VTOL ducted-fan test vehicle designed and built by Chrysler for the United States Army Flying Jeep competition.[1][2]

Quick Facts Role, National origin ...
Chrysler VZ-6
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Role VTOL experimental platform
National origin United States
Manufacturer Chrysler
First flight 1959
Number built 2
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Design and development

Ordered in 1958, two VZ-6s were built. It was a rectangular-shaped vehicle with two three-bladed propellers inset at the front and back.[2] The 500 hp Lycoming engine was located in the center driving the ducted fan propellers.[2] It was also fitted with rubber skirts around the bottom edge of the vehicle similar to a hovercraft.[2]

Operational history

The VZ-6 started tethered flight tests in 1959, but these showed that the vehicle was overweight and underpowered with stability problems.[2] An attempt at a non-tethered flight resulted in the VZ-6 flipping over, writing off the vehicle, but the pilot escaped without any serious injuries.[2] Both VZ-6s were scrapped in 1960.[2]

Specifications

Data from [2]

General characteristics

  • Crew: 1
  • Length: 21 ft 6 in (6.55 m)
  • Height: 5 ft 2 in (1.57 m) [3]
  • Gross weight: 2,400 lb (1,089 kg) [3]
  • Powerplant: 1 × Lycoming , 500 hp (370 kW)
  • Main rotor diameter: 2 × 8 ft 6 in (2.59 m)

See also

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

Related lists

References

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