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Historical Essay © Andreas Parsch

Beech KDB/MQM-39

In 1955, the U.S. Navy initiated a design competition for a new recoverable low-speed target drone. The Beech Model 1001 was eventually selected and designated KDB by the Navy. The first XKDB-1 flew in early 1957, and production of the KDB-1 started in 1959. The U.S. Army adopted the very similar Model 1025 Cardinal, later designated as MQM-61.

The KDB-1 was powered by a McCulloch six-cylinder piston engine, and could be launched either by a catapult or a zero-length launcher (using a rocket booster in the latter case). The drone was controlled in flight by a radio command guidance system, and was recovered by a single drogue parachute. It was used for air-to-air and ground-to-air anti-aircraft missile and gunnery training. The KDB-1 could be fitted with various equipment like miss distance indicators, and radar and infrared augmentation devices. It was also frequently used to tow banners or other towed targets.

In June 1963, the KDB-1 was redesignated as MQM-39A. Production continued until the early 1970s, and almost 1000 KDB-1/MQM-39A targets were built.

Note: Data given by several sources show slight variations. Figures given below may therefore be inaccurate!

Data for MQM-39A:

[1] R.T. Pretty, D.H.R. Archer (eds.): "Jane's Weapon Systems 1970-71", McGraw-Hill, 1970
[2] Kenneth Munson: "World Unmanned Aircraft", Jane's, 1988
[3] Frederick I. Ordway III, Ronald C. Wakeford: "International Missile and Spacecraft Guide", McGraw-Hill, 1960

Manufacturer: Beechcraft.

Air launched version.

Manufacturer: Beechcraft. Liftoff Thrust: 56 N (13 lbf). Total Mass: 301 kg (663 lb). Core Diameter: 0.46 m (1.50 ft). Total Length: 4.60 m (15.00 ft). Span: 3.69 m (12.10 ft). Maximum range: 480 km (290 mi). Boost Propulsion: Solid rocket. Cruise Propulsion: Reciprocating engine. Guidance: Command Link. Maximum speed: 650 kph (400 mph). Ceiling: 13,100 m (42,900 ft).

Trailer-launched version.

Manufacturer: Beechcraft.