The Bell YFM-1 Airacuda, an American heavy fighter aircraft, was developed in the mid-1930s.
It was Bell’s inaugural military aircraft.
Initially known as the Bell Model 1, the Airacuda took its maiden flight on September 1, 1937.
Characterised by innovative design features and significant defects, these issues led to the aircraft’s eventual grounding.
The Airacuda represented Bell Aircraft’s concept of a “bomber destroyer.”
Despite limited production and the formation of one operational squadron, only one prototype and twelve production models were built, across three marginally different versions.
Bell Aircraft developed a distinctive fighter concept in an attempt to enter the aviation industry, promoting it as a “mobile anti-aircraft platform” and a “convoy fighter.”
The YFM-1 (Y, service test; F, fighter; M, multiplace) was designed to engage enemy bombers at distances exceeding the capabilities of single-seat fighter interceptors.
This innovative aircraft design by Bell Aircraft incorporated numerous unprecedented features in military aviation, some of which were not replicated in subsequent aircraft models.
The Bell Airacuda, with its sleek and “futuristic” design, stood out as a unique fighter unlike any others of its time.
The Bell Airacuda is a remarkable feat of engineering, showcasing advanced capabilities.
However, it is inaccurately labelled as a ‘convoy fighter’ due to its armament configuration.
By concentrating its substantial firepower towards the front, it provides a glimpse into the potential of a highly efficient long-range interceptor aircraft.
The crew of five consisted of the pilot, gunners, a copilot/navigator who also served as a fire-control officer, a radio operator/gunner.
A unique feature of the Airacuda was its main entry door.
This door was designed to be opened and pulled down, with the hinges folding in on three steps, allowing the crew to easily climb into the aircraft.
An operational Airacuda squadron, fully equipped and ready for action, was eventually formed and operated from 1938 to 1940.
Although funds were allocated for the purchase of two groups of Airacudas, they were never actually released.
The aircraft faced ongoing issues, which led to them gaining a reputation as “hangar queens.”
Towards the end of their operational lifespan, the Airacudas were primarily used for photo opportunities, always accompanied by a chase plane for safety measures.
Eventually, a decision was made to disperse the aircraft to different airfields, allowing pilots the chance to log flight hours with these unique planes.
Airacudas were sent to various locations, such as Langley Field in Virginia, Maxwell Field in Alabama, Hamilton Field in California, and Wright Field in Dayton, Ohio.
One particular Airacuda, with the serial number YFM-1 38-488, was showcased at the 1940 World’s Fair in New York, adorned with the markings of the 27th Pursuit Squadron.
During this period, the aircraft had limited flight time, as only a few pilots showed interest in flying these unconventional machines.
Numerous plans were devised to modify the Airacudas, aiming to enhance their operational capabilities by altering the airframe and installing more powerful engines.
However, all proposals were ultimately rejected.
In early 1942, despite concerns about potential enemy bomber attacks, for which the Airacuda was originally designed, the aircraft were officially removed from inventory.
Variants
XFM-1
(Model 1)
The prototype, equipped with two 1,150 hp V-1710-13 engines, had one unit built, designated as 38-351.
YFM-1
(Model 7)
Development aircraft were equipped with two 1,150 hp V-1710-23 engines and armed with 37 mm cannons in the wing nacelles; eight were constructed, with two subsequently converted to YFM-1B.
YFM-1A
(Model 8)
Three aircraft featuring tricycle landing gear were developed.
YFM-1B
Two YFM-1 aircraft were re-engined with 1,090 hp V-1710-41 engines, converted from the original YFM-1 configuration.
YFM-1C
(Model 17)
The proposed variant was not pursued.
Specifications
XFM-1
Crew
Five
Length
44 ft 10 in (13.67 m)
Wingspan
69 ft 10 in (21.29 m)
Height
13 ft 7 in (4.14 m)
Wing area
684 sq ft (63.5 m2)
Airfoil
NACA 23018
NACA 23009
Empty weight
13,376 lb (6,067 kg)
Gross weight
17,333 lb (7,862 kg)
Max take-off weight
21,625 lb (9,809 kg)
Fuel capacity
400 US gal (1,500 l)
Powerplant
2 × Allison V-1710-9
Liquid-cooled turbo supercharged V-12
1,090 hp (810 kW) each
Propellers
Three-bladed
Performance
Maximum speed
277 mph (446 km/h, 241 kn)
Cruise speed
244 mph (393 km/h, 212 kn)
Range
2,600 mi (4,200 km, 2,300 nmi)
Service ceiling
30,500 ft (9,300 m)
Rate of climb
1,480 ft/min (7.5 m/s)
Armament
Guns
2 × 37 mm (1.46 in) M4 cannons (110 rpg)
2 × .30 in (7.62 mm) M1919 Browning machine guns in front of nacelles
2 × .50 in (12.7 mm) M2 Browning machine guns (600 rpg) in side blisters
Bombs
20 × 30 lb (14 kg) fragmentation bombs in wing bays.
Sources
Bell YFM-1 Airacuda, The World’s Worst Aircraft – J Winchester.
U.S. Experimental & Prototype Aircraft Projects: Fighters 1939–1945-B Norton.
The American Fighter from 1917 to the present – E Angelucci.
