Nord Aviation CT20

The Nord Aviation CT20 was a French turbojet-powered radio-controlled target drone introduced in 1957. Built by Nord Aviation and powered by a Turbomeca Marbore II engine providing a top speed of 900 km/h and a flying time of 55 to 60 minutes, it has been noted for its similarity with the Ryan Firebee. The unmanned drone was used in the development of Air-to-air missiles following the Second World War.^[1][2]

After the startup of the turbojet, the target drone is placed on a ramp and is launched using two rockets. During its flight, the drone is controlled via radio signals from the ground. As it is made of light materials it is buoyant in water and so can be recovered if it is forced to land on water.^[3]

Variants

CT20

Radio controlled target

R20

Battlefield reconnaissance drone. 62 built for French Army.^[4]

SAAB Rb 08

Anti-ship missile (AShM) version of CT20 for Royal Swedish Navy. 68 built.^[4]

Specifications (CT.20)

Data from Jane's All The World's Aircraft 1976–77^[4]

General characteristics

• Crew: 0
• Length: 5.45 m (17 ft 11 in)
• Wingspan: 3.16 m (10 ft 4 in)
• Wing area: 3.20 m² (34.4 sq ft)
• Empty weight: 490 kg (1,080 lb)
• Max takeoff weight: 660 kg (1,455 lb)
• Powerplant: 1 × Turboméca Marboré II turbojet, 3.92 kN (880 lbf) thrust

Performance

• Maximum speed: 900 km/h (560 mph; 490 kn)
• Maximum speed: Mach 0.85
• Endurance: 50 min
• Service ceiling: 12,000 m (39,370 ft)
• Time to altitude: 10,000 m (32,800 ft) in 6 min

References

• Taylor, John W. R. Jane's All The World's Aircraft 1976–77. London:Jane's Yearbooks. ISBN 0-354-00538-3.