This is a Loon missile, an American copy of the German pulsejet-powered V-1 of World War II. It is shown painted like the V-1, with war time German camouflage markings and colors, a scheme created by the current borrower, the Museum of Transport and Technology. The Loon was designed to carry a 2,200 pound payload to a range of 150 miles at a velocity of 375-400 miles per hour.
First appearing in 1945, the Loon could serve as a surface-to-surface or air-to-surface missile, although it was primarily for the former role. In 1950, the Loon project was cancelled and was replaced by the Regulus missile.
The U.S. Navy transferred this Loon missile to the Smithsonian Institution in 1966.
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
ca. 1945-1950
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
CRAFT-Missiles & Rockets
Manufacturer
Ford Motor Company
Dimensions
Overall: 32 in. wide x 271 1/2 in. long x 208 5/8 in. wing span, 2500 lb. (81.28 x 689.61 x 529.85cm, 1134kg)
Materials
Overall, steel, including pulsejet tube and grill; trailing edge of wings, aluminum.
Inventory Number
A19660168000
Credit Line
Transferred from the U.S. Navy
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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