Ernie P.

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No correct answers thus far. But two new guesses begets two new clues. Thanks; Ernie P.


Question: What warbird do I describe?

Clues:

1. The genesis of this aircraft was an attempt to create a combat aircraft with a decided speed advantage.
2. The plan was to design an aircraft that would be small and light.
3. And, it would have less drag than most contemporary aircraft.
4. Also, a lot of work was done on streamlining the design.
5. Reducing drag was to be accomplished by eliminating the bracing and supports used by most current aircraft.
6. This was only partially successful; but the final design was markedly less “cluttered” than anything else around.
7. The aircraft proved to be quite fast for its day.
8. And, it also proved to be really, really weird looking; for its day or any other time.
9. Like really, seriously weird.
10. In the end, the plane’s appearance proved too controversial, perhaps even too weird, for it to go into production.
11. Only a couple of prototypes were produced.
12. Although the plane was fast, it had some deficiencies.
13. It was difficult to handle on the ground; particularly during landing.
14. The center of gravity was high, causing instability.
15. The landing gear track was very narrow.
16. Also, the pilot had limited visibility during landing.