Globe KDG/KD3G Snipe

After World War II, Globe built a series of small radio-controlled target drones for the U.S. Navy. The first of these was the KDG-1 Snipe in 1946. The KDG-1 was a mid-wing design powered by a McCulloch 4300 piston engine. It was launched from a catapult and recovered by parachute. The KDG-2 was a variant with a different electrical system.

The KDG targets were phased out before 1950, but the KD3G model of the Snipe lasted slightly longer. The KD3G-1 was essentially identical to the KDG-1 except for its 26 kW (35 hp) Kiekhaefer O-45-35 piston engine. The KD3G-2 was a KD3G-1 with an AN/ARW-26Y radio control receiver for the KD3G-2's 28V electrical system. The KD3G Snipe targets were in use until the early 1950s.

Specifications

I have no detail information about the characteristics of the KDG and KD3G series target drones.

Main Sources

[1] US Navy: "Model Designations of Naval Aircraft", 1947, 1950 and 1951

Back to Directory of U.S. Military Rockets and Missiles, Appendix 1

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Last Updated: 31 March 2003