Boeing X-37A Approach and Landing Test Vehicle
Boeing Defense, Space & Security · United States · first flew 2006 · reconnaissance aircraft
The Boeing X-37A ALTV is an unpowered atmospheric test vehicle shaped like a miniature space shuttle, used to validate the aerodynamic handling and landing characteristics of the X-37 design. It was air-launched and glided to runway landings.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, delta |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × turbojet, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 8.38 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | No tailplane |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Small unmanned spaceplane shape with delta wings
- Approach and landing test vehicle — dropped from carrier aircraft
- Precursor to operational X-37B orbital vehicle
Tiny shuttle-like vehicle with a blended delta wing-body, a prominent vertical tail, and no engine nozzle; far smaller than the Space Shuttle it superficially resembles.
Specifications
- The Boeing X-37A Approach and Landing Test Vehicle has a length of 8.38 m (27 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 4.57 m (15 ft).
- Typical crew: 0 (unmanned).
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Originally a NASA programme, the X-37 was transferred to DARPA and then to the US Air Force. The ALTV conducted approach and landing tests in 2006 at Edwards Air Force Base, proving the design before the powered X-37B orbital version was built. It was dropped from a Scaled Composites White Knight carrier aircraft.
Variants
The ALTV is a distinct atmospheric test article; the X-37B is the operational orbital variant operated by the US Space Force.
Where you'll see it
Used exclusively for test purposes; not an operational vehicle.
Related aircraft
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