The Fairchild J44 turbojet was created under rigid limitations of weight, size, and thrust for the Navy missile it was to power. The J44 made its first flight in 1950, powering the Petrel air-to-underwater torpedo-carrying missile, and was later selected to power the Ryan high-speed Firebee target drone.

The J44 (commercial designation FT-101E) was qualified for use in manned aircraft in 1955, becoming the first turbojet in its power and weight class to receive an Approved Type Certificate. It powered the Bell Model 65 VTOL Air Test Vehicle. However, no significant manned aircraft applications were found for the J44.

By the late 1950s, the more fuel efficient Continental J69 took the place of the J44 in the Firebee, and the Petrel missile was also phased out about that time. The last batch of J44 engines and spare parts were manufactured in 1959.

 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 1950 Country of Origin United States of America Type PROPULSION-Turbines (Jet) Manufacturer Fairchild Engine and Airplane Corporation
 Physical Description Type: Turbojet Thrust: 4,448 N (1,000 lb) at 15,780 rpm Compressor: Single-stage mixed-flow Combustor: Through-flow annular Turbine: Single-stage axial Weight: 167.8 kg (370 lb) Dimensions 3-D (on stand): 208.3 × 76.2 × 75.6cm, 227.3kg (6 ft. 10 in. × 2 ft. 6 in. × 2 ft. 5 3/4 in., 501lb.)
3-D (without stand): 193 × 61.6 × 55.9cm, 167.8kg (6 ft. 4 in. × 2 ft. 1/4 in. × 1 ft. 10 in., 370lb.)
 Materials Aluminum
Magnesium Alloy
Paint
Steel
Rubber
Copper Alloy
Plastic
Cadmium Plating
Phenolic Resin
Natural Fabric
Lead
Silver Plating
 Inventory Number A19650251000 Credit Line Gift of Virginia Polytechnic Institute Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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