Parasite Aircraft

A parasite aircraft is a smaller, secondary aircraft that is designed to be carried and launched by a larger host aircraft, known as the mothership. This concept has been explored and utilized in various military and experimental aviation projects. The main purpose of a parasite aircraft is to extend the operational range, capabilities, and versatility of the host aircraft.

Below, you will find related documents and programs.

B-36 Peacemaker Parasite Aircraft System

The B-36 Parasite Aircraft System was an innovative military aviation project developed during the Cold War era, involving the integration of smaller, secondary aircraft (parasites) with a larger host aircraft (the B-36 Peacemaker bomber). The primary purpose of this system was to enhance the operational range and capabilities of the host aircraft by utilizing parasite fighters for various missions, including reconnaissance, interception, and escort.

Capabilities of B-36 Parasite Systems, May 1953 [64 Pages, 1.71MB]

Operational Suitability Test of the RB-36/F-84 Parasite Aircraft System (Phase I), April 1953 [102 Pages, 21.9MB]

Project FICON

Project FICON (Fighter Conveyor), developed by the United States Air Force during the early 1950s, was an experimental initiative aimed at integrating a fighter aircraft with a strategic bomber to enhance its defensive and reconnaissance capabilities. The project primarily involved the B-36 Peacemaker bomber carrying and deploying an RF-84K Thunderflash, a reconnaissance variant of the F-84 Thunderjet. Utilizing a specially designed trapeze mechanism, the RF-84K could be launched and retrieved mid-air, allowing the B-36 to conduct long-range missions while the parasite fighter provided additional protection and conducted reconnaissance operations. Although the project demonstrated some operational potential, technical challenges and the advent of more advanced air refueling techniques eventually led to its discontinuation.

FICON Progress Report, 15 February 1954 [30 Pages, 3.72mb]

Description of Parasite System Utilizing Convair B-36 Carrier [88 Pages, 15.5mb]

 

Project TOM-TOM

Project TOM-TOM was an experimental program undertaken by the United States Air Force in the early 1950s to explore the feasibility of using wingtip coupling between aircraft. The project aimed to connect two F-84 Thunderjet fighters to the wingtips of a B-29 Superfortress bomber, effectively creating a composite aircraft system. This configuration was intended to extend the range of the fighter aircraft by allowing them to ride along with the bomber until needed for combat or reconnaissance missions. The coupling mechanism allowed for the transfer of fuel and navigation data, enhancing the operational capabilities of the fighters. However, Project TOM-TOM faced significant technical difficulties, including aerodynamic instability and the complexity of in-flight coupling and decoupling, ultimately leading to the project’s abandonment in favor of more practical air refueling techniques.

Project TOM-TOM Summary Report, 30 December 1957 [169 Pages, 15.79mb]

 

Micro-Fighter/Airborne Aircraft Carrier Concept

The Micro-Fighter/Airborne Aircraft Carrier concept is a visionary military aviation strategy that envisions a large aircraft, such as a bomber or transport plane, serving as a flying aircraft carrier for smaller, agile micro-fighters. These micro-fighters would be housed within the larger aircraft and deployed mid-air to conduct various missions, including air superiority, reconnaissance, and ground attack. This concept aims to enhance the strategic flexibility and reach of military operations by allowing rapid deployment and recovery of fighters in combat zones, far from traditional airbases. The airborne aircraft carrier could provide fuel, maintenance, and logistical support to the micro-fighters, significantly extending their operational range and effectiveness. Despite the innovative potential, the concept faces substantial technical and logistical challenges, such as the development of reliable launch and recovery systems and ensuring the structural integrity and safety of the host aircraft during operations.

Investigation of a Micro-Fighter/Airborne Aircraft Carrier Concept. Volume 1 [78 Pages, 10.2MB]

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