The Tiny Tim air-to-ground missile was the largest American rocket in service during World War II. It weighed 1,250 pounds (567 kg.) and was also designated the 11.75-inch aircraft rocket (its diameter or caliber). The TNT warhead weighed 148.5 lbs (67.3 kg.), which could destroy coastal defense guns, pill boxes, bridges, tanks, and ships. The missile was primarily used by a Marine Corps Air Group and was mounted on F4U aircraft.
Tiny Tims sunk at least one Japanese ship and seriously damaged another. During the Korean War, one Tiny Tim knocked out a key bridge. Visible in this partial cutaway are simulated solid-propellant sticks and the rocket's 24 exhaust nozzles. This object was donated to the Smithsonian by the U.S. Navy in 1964.
Display Status
This object is on display in World War II Aviation at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Date
1944-1951
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
CRAFT-Missiles & Rockets
Manufacturer
California Institute of Technology
Dimensions
Overall: 10 ft. 3 in. long x 11 3/4 in. diameter, 1255 lb. (312.42 x 29.85cm, 569.3kg)
Other (Nozzle): 1 1/4 in. diameter (3.18cm)
Materials
Overall, steel; fins, aluminum; simulated propellant, wood, possibly pine; felt in front of propellant grain simulations; copper burst disc, in back of nozzles; two electrical leads for ignition, with transpararent plastic insulation, leading from back of nozzle.
Alternate Name
Tiny Tim Missile
Inventory Number
A19660030000
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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