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This is the KDN-1 drone, a version of the U.S. Navy's Gorgon missile. It dates from the immediate post-World War II period (1946-1947). The Bureau of Aeronautics managed development and production, which took place at the Naval Aircraft Modification Unit at Johnsville, Pennsylvania. A small turbojet engine powered the KDN-1 to speeds reaching 500 miles per hour. It also incorporated preset controls, a radio-command guidance system, and a parachute for recovery and reuse. The Navy Reserve used the drone for gunnery practice at the Navy Test Station in Lakehurst, New Jersey. The Navy donated the KDN-1 shown here to the Smithsonian in 1965.

 Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Date ca. 1946-1947 Country of Origin United States of America Type CRAFT-Missiles & Rockets Manufacturer Naval Aircraft Modification Unit
 Dimensions Overall: 4ft 2in. x 16ft 3in. x 1ft 10in. x 10ft 9in. (127 x 495.3 x 55.88 x 327.66cm)
 Materials Overall, wood; steel cables inside front compartment; steel screws; actuator for controlling wings, steel; wire, with plastic insulation inside; some fabric covering on one compartment at front, on top of fuselage.
 Inventory Number A19660034000 Credit Line Transferred from U.S. Navy Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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