This is the U.S. Navy Sparrow 2 air-to-air missile, designed and built by the Douglas Aircraft Company. It was a highly maneuverable missile designed for U.S. Navy aircraft and was similar to the Sparrow 1, America's first operational air-to-air guided missile, but the Sparrow 2 had a more advanced guidance system.
The Sparrow family of missiles originated in 1946 and became one of the largest and most important missile programs for the United States, NATO, and other U.S. allies. A branch of the Sparrow family exists today as the AIM series of missiles.
This missile was donated to the Smithsonian in 1959 by the U.S. Naval Missile Center.
Display Status
This object is on display in Korea and Vietnam Aviation at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.
Object Details
Date
1958
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
ARMAMENT-Missiles
Manufacturer
Douglas Aircraft Company
Physical Description
Cylindrical, tapering towards nosecone tip; with four equi-distant projections (arms) around base, for accomodating fins. Overall, blaze orange and white fibreglass nosecone. Accompanied by separate, curved metal rods (external electrical leads probablly to be fitted along warhead or guidance and control sections).
Separate motor (1959-0099-003) and separate fins (1959-0099-002).
Dimensions
Overall: 9 in. wide x 7 ft. 5 in. long (22.86 x 226.06cm)
Materials
Aluminum and steel; fiberglass nosecone
Alternate Name
Sparrow 2 Missile
Inventory Number
A19590099000
Credit Line
Transferred from U.S. Navy
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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