Martin KF-1
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Martin KF-1 was an American biplane fighter aircraft designed and built by Captain James V. Martin.
Typefighter
National origin
United StatesDesigner
James V. Martin
Numberbuilt4 (1 K-3 prototype, 3 K-IV)
| KF-1 | |
|---|---|
| General information | |
| Type | fighter |
National origin | United States |
| Designer | James V. Martin |
| Number built | 4 (1 K-3 prototype, 3 K-IV) |
| History | |
| First flight | May 1918[1] |
Development
The KF-1 started as a proposed "high-altitude fighter" designated the K.III. Powered by an ABC Gnat the K-3 first flew in May 1918, and was delivered to McCook Field the next month. The model was not ordered for production.
In 1921 Martin submitted an improved version with a larger engine and wider wings. The Navy ordered three, designated K-IV, then later KF-1. The version featured a central float and outriggers.[2]
Variants
- J.V. Martin K.III Kitten the 45 hp prototype the KF-1 is based on.
Specifications (KF-1)
Data from Angelucci, 1987. p. 293.[1]
General characteristics
- Crew: 1
- Length: 17 ft 0 in (5.18 m)
- Wingspan: 24 ft 2 in (7.36 m)
- Wing area: 145 sq ft (13.47 m2)
- Empty weight: 686 lb (311 kg)
- Gross weight: 980 lb (444 kg)
- Powerplant: 1 × Lawrance L-3 , 60 hp (45 kW)
Performance
- Maximum speed: 98 mph (158 km/h, 85 kn)
- Service ceiling: 11,400 ft (3,475 m)
- Rate of climb: 417 ft/min (2.12 m/s)
See also
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era Port Victoria P.V.8 "Kitten"