On 09 Jan 2004 22:31:10 GMT, nt (Krztalizer) wrote:

I wonder how a Tweet would do in "combat" with a Buckeye? Anyone ever see
these two go mano a mano?

Advantage Buckeye - it at least has a hook it can use for close quarter combat.

Well, the Tweet is decidedly lacking in weapons, so the hook is
probably viable. But if we're just talking maneuverability, I wouldn't
discount the Cessna. That big square wing will flat generate some
turn. The problem would largely be in excess power--ol' P-sub-s.

Once slow, it would be a question of who could keep flying. It would
definitely be a low-speed fight and except for first moves, largely
horizontal. Stall speed of the Tweet, about 72 knots. The wiley Tweet
driver should probably pull the spoiler circuit breaker (those little
panels on the top of the engine intakes that disrupt airflow over the
tail to give stall warning buffet)--that would let you milk another
four or five knots slower. Then, judicious use of flaps to get a bit
more turn rate at yet lower speed.....

Now, if we went with AT-37 with those non-afterburning J85s to replace
the J-69s, then it's no question the Tweet goes vertical and has the
Buckeye for lunch.



Ed Rasimus
Fighter Pilot (USAF-Ret)
"When Thunder Rolled"
Smithsonian Institution Press
ISBN #1-58834-103-8