Curtiss XF13C
Curtiss-Wright · United States · first flew 1934 · fighter
The Curtiss XF13C was an innovative US Navy carrier fighter prototype of 1934 designed to be tested in both biplane and parasol monoplane configurations by fitting or removing the upper wing, allowing direct performance comparison between the two layouts.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, tapered |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × piston, nose-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 7.62 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- US Navy carrier fighter prototype convertible between biplane and monoplane
- Interchangeable upper wing — tested in both configurations
- Wright Cyclone radial with streamlined cowling
In monoplane form resembles a parasol-winged fighter with a radial engine; in biplane form adds a lower wing. The interchangeable-wing concept makes it unique among carrier aircraft prototypes of the 1930s.
Specifications
- The Curtiss XF13C has a length of 7.62 m (25 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 10.66 m (35 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 396 km/h (246 mph).
- Typical crew: 1.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Curtiss built the XF13C to explore the biplane-to-monoplane transition for naval aviation. Testing confirmed the monoplane arrangement's superior speed, helping accelerate the US Navy's transition away from biplanes. The type was not selected for production.
Variants
Evaluated as XF13C-1 (biplane) and XF13C-3 (monoplane) by simple configuration change.
Where you'll see it
Never entered production or fleet service; a developmental aircraft that contributed to understanding of naval fighter design.
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