Object Details
Manufacturer
Naval Aircraft Modification Unit
Summary
This is the KDN-1 drone, a version of the U.S. Navy's Gorgon missile. It dates from the immediate post-World War II period (1946-1947). The Bureau of Aeronautics managed development and production, which took place at the Naval Aircraft Modification Unit at Johnsville, Pennsylvania. A small turbojet engine powered the KDN-1 to speeds reaching 500 miles per hour. It also incorporated preset controls, a radio-command guidance system, and a parachute for recovery and reuse. The Navy Reserve used the drone for gunnery practice at the Navy Test Station in Lakehurst, New Jersey. The Navy donated the KDN-1 shown here to the Smithsonian in 1965.
Credit Line
Transferred from U.S. Navy
Date
ca. 1946-1947
Inventory Number
A19660034000
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Type
CRAFT-Missiles & Rockets
Materials
Overall, wood; steel cables inside front compartment; steel screws; actuator for controlling wings, steel; wire, with plastic insulation inside; some fabric covering on one compartment at front, on top of fuselage.
Dimensions
Overall: 4ft 2in. x 16ft 3in. x 1ft 10in. x 10ft 9in. (127 x 495.3 x 55.88 x 327.66cm)
Country of Origin
United States of America
See more items in
National Air and Space Museum Collection
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nasm_A19660034000