Shown here is the YLR-63-AJ-3 liquid-fuel rocket engine developed and built by the Aerojet-General Corporation for use as a built-in jet-assisted-take-off (JATO) on Republic Aircraft's F-84 fighter jet. Known as a super-performance engine, the YLR-63 was designed to increase the F-84's combat performance against Soviet MiG jets during the Korean War. The U.S. Air Force awarded the engine contract to Aerojet in 1953. The regeneratively cooled YLR-63 produced up to five thousand pounds of thrust and could be restarted multiple times.
Flight testing of the engine on F-84 aircraft began after the Korean War had ended. Consequently, the TLR-63 never became operational. It was the last of Aerojet's super-performance engines, having been replaced by more powerful jet engines equipped with afterburners. Aerojet gave this engine to the Museum 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. 1956
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
PROPULSION-Components (Engine Parts)
Manufacturer
Aerojet General Corp.
Dimensions
Overall: 13 x 34 5/8 x 10 5/8 in., 88lb. (33 x 87.9 x 27cm, 39.9kg)
Materials
Steel
Paint
Aluminum
Non-Magnetic Alloy
Plastic
Inventory Number
A19680548000
Credit Line
Gift of Aerojet General Corporation
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.