This is the Falcon, or GAR-1 (Guided Aircraft Rocket), the first of a large family of U.S. air-to-air solid-fuel guided missiles and the first guided air-to-air missile to enter operational service. GAR-1 was radar-guided. The missile had a range of up to five miles and speed of about Mach 2.8. Designed to destroy enemy bombers, it was carried on the F-89-H, F-102A, and F-106A interceptor aircraft.
Development of the Falcon began in 1947 and it became operational with the U.S. Air Force in 1956. In 1962 GAR-1 was re-designated AIM-4 (Air Interceptor Missile). Several more AIM models later appeared. NASM acquired the missile in 1958 from its developer, the Hughes Aircraft Co.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Date
1954- ca.1962
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
ARMAMENT-Missiles
Manufacturer
Hughes Aircraft Co.
Physical Description
Cylindrical with four long criuciform delta fins running down half of its length; taper rounded nose, and four much smaller cruciform vanes under nose. Cruciform control surfaces on trailing edges of fins. Semimonocoque construction. Painted orange with black nose.
Dimensions
3-D (Overall): 196.8 × 43.2 × 45.7cm (6 ft. 5 1/2 in. × 1 ft. 5 in. × 1 ft. 6 in.)
Materials
Magnesium skin with body and fins of glass fiber-reinforced phenolic plastic
Inventory Number
A19580099000
Credit Line
Gift of Hughes Aircraft Co.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
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