The Northrop YC-125 Raider was a tri-engined STOL transport aircraft used by the United States Air Force.
History[]
The Raider was developed from the N-23 Pioneer, and earlier design of Northrop's whose prototype crashed in 1947. It first flew on August 1st, 1949, and entered service the following year. However, the YC-125 had a relatively short service life, due to it being underpowered. All were retired by 1955, with only 23 built.
Variants[]
- N-23 Pioneer: A prototype of a three-engined STOL aircraft, only one was built
- N-23 Raider: Military version of the N-23
- YC-125A Raider: A troop transport aircraft with space for up to thirty personnel, 13 aircraft were built
- YC-125B Raider: This variant was modified for arctic rescue missions, modifications include twenty stretchers and the possibility of adding ski undercarriage. Ten aircraft were built.
Specifications []
- Powerplant: three Wright R-1820-99 Cyclone radial engines
- Top speed: 207 mph
- Range: 1,856 miles
- Ceiling: 12,200 feet
- Crew: 4
- Capacity: 30 troops or 20 stretchers
- Length: 67 feet 1 inch
- Height: 23 feet 1 inch
- Wingspan: 86 feet 6 inches