| XF6B | |
|---|---|
 The XF6B-1 in the early 1930s | |
| General information | |
| Type | Carrier-basedfighter-bomber |
| National origin | United States |
| Manufacturer | Boeing |
| Status | Cancelled |
| Number built | 1 |
| History | |
| First flight | 1 February 1933[1] |
| Developed from | Boeing F4B |
TheBoeing XF6B-1 / XBFB-1 was Boeing's lastbiplane design for theUnited States Navy. Only the one prototype,Model 236, was ever built; although first flying in early 1933, it rammed into acrash barrier in 1936 and the design was not pursued further.
Ordered by the U.S. Navy on 30 June 1931, the fighter aircraft was a derivative of theBoeing F4B; it was almost entirely of metal construction, with only the wings still fabric-covered. The aircraft was powered by a 625 hpPratt & Whitney R-1535-44 Twin Wasp engine.[1]
The intended role of this design turned out to be uncertain. While its rugged construction was capable of withstanding highg-forces, it weighed in at 3,704 pounds (700 pounds more than the F4B), and did not have the maneuverability needed in a fighter aircraft. It was, however, suitable as afighter-bomber, and in March 1934 the prototype was redesignatedXBFB-1 in recognition of its qualities. Even so, various ideas were tried to improve its fighter qualifications, such as an improved enginecowling, streamlining around the landing gear, and even a three-bladed propeller (two-bladed props being standard).[1]
Performance of the Boeing XF6B remained unsatisfactory with the U.S. Navy instead opting for theCurtiss F11C Goshawk.[1]
Data from Angelucci, 1987. pp. 85-86.[1]
General characteristics
Performance
Armament
