McDonnell Douglas X-36 Prototype Onsie

The McDonnell Douglas X-36 was a groundbreaking and exhilarating experiment in the world of aviation, showcasing the future of fighter aircraft design. This tailless, remotely piloted aircraft was developed in the 1990s as part of a joint venture between McDonnell Douglas and NASA, aiming to test advanced flight control systems for future fighter aircraft. With its first flight in 1997, the X-36 was a marvel of engineering, demonstrating exceptional agility and control in the absence of a traditional tail assembly. Weighing just over 1,250 pounds and measuring 19 feet in length, this prototype was designed to explore the limits of stealth and aerodynamic efficiency. Its innovative design and successful test flights have significantly influenced modern fighter jet technology, making the X-36 a pivotal player in the evolution of aerial combat capabilities. The project's achievements have paved the way for advancements in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and next-generation fighter aircraft, marking the X-36 as a true pioneer in aerospace technology.

Like the image but not on a Child? See this same graphic elsewhere.