Curtiss XF13C
# Curtiss XF13C

The Curtiss XF13C (Model 70) was a carrier-based fighter aircraft built by Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company.

## Development and design

The XF13C was a naval fighter featuring an all-metal construction, with a semi-monocoque fuselage, manually retractable landing gear and an enclosed cockpit. The aircraft was designed to facilitate conversions from biplane to monoplane and vice versa. The United States Navy bought a prototype, designated XF13C-1 when in monoplane configuration, and XF13C-2 when a biplane.

The XF13C first flew in 1934 with good results realized in tests. In 1935, the aircraft received a more powerful engine and modifications to the overly tall tailplanes. The designation was changed to XF13C-3 for more flight testing.

## Operational history

No production orders were received for the Curtis XF13C, but the aircraft continued to fly for NACA in experimental work, and by VWJ-1 Squadron at Quantico.

## Specifications (XF13C-3)

Data from

General characteristics

* Crew: 1
* Length: 25 ft 0 in (7.62 m)
* Wingspan: 35 ft 0 in (10.66 m)
* Height: 8 ft 9.5 in (2.66 m)
* Wing area: 205 sq ft (19.04 $m^2)$
* Empty weight: 3.412 lb (1,548 kg)
* Gross weight: 4,634 lb (2,102 kg)
* Powerplant: 1 × Wright SGR-1510-12 , 700 hp (520 kW)

Performance

* Maximum speed: 246 mph (396 km/h, 214 kn)
* Range: 726 mi (1,168 km, 631 nmi)
* Service ceiling: 25,250 ft (7,696 m)
* Rate of climb: 2,000 ft/min (10.16 m/s)

Armament

* 1 × .50 in (12.7 mm) machine gun
* 1 × .30 in (7.62 mm) machine gun
