This is a mockup of an LR63-AJ-1 liquid fuel rocket motor developed by the Aerojet Engineering Co. as a "Superperformance engine," or built-in JATO (Jet-Assisted-Take-Off), to boost the performance of a U.S. Air Force F-86 jet fighter. It produced 3,500-5,000 pounds of thrust.
During the Korean War, there was an urgent requirement for a Superperformance engine for the F-86 to counter the superior performance of Soviet MiG jets. The LR63 was already being developed experimentally for the F-84 fighter-bomber. It was subsequently modified for use on the F-86. Flight tests on an F-86 were made in 1956 but the war had ended and the YLR63 did not become operational. The motor was donated to the Smithsonian by the Aerojet General Corp. in 1968.
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. 1950-1956
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Rocket Engines
Manufacturer
Aerojet General Corp.
Dimensions
Overall (Approximate): 101 1/2 × 10 in., 10cm (257.8 × 25.4cm, 3 15/16 in.)
Storage: 64.8 × 280.7 × 94cm, 234.1kg (25 1/2 × 110 1/2 × 37 in., 516lb.)
Materials
Steel
Non-Magnetic White Metal Alloy
Anodized Aluminum
Plastic
Paper
Adhesive
Ink
Inventory Number
A19680545000
Credit Line
Aerojet General Corp.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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