One of the more extreme engine conversions of the platform, the Chase XC-123A incorporated turbojets in pods like the Boeing B-47 Stratojet. [U.S. Air Force]
Key Takeaways:
The Fairchild C-123 Provider originated as the Chase XCG-20, a large unpowered assault glider, before evolving into a powered cargo aircraft due to changing military requirements.
Throughout its history, the C-123 was uniquely adapted to operate with five different engine configurations, encompassing piston, turboprop, pure jet, and combined piston/jet power.
While piston engines powered the definitive and widely used versions, experimental modifications included adding jet booster engines for increased thrust and payload, and a notable all-jet variant (XC-123A) for enhanced performance.
One of the more extreme engine conversions of the platform, the Chase XC-123A incorporated turbojets in pods like the Boeing B-47 Stratojet. [U.S. Air Force]
Not all cargo aircraft begin their lives as unpowered assault gliders. Fewer still go on to utilize five different engine configurations, encompassing piston, turboprop, jet, and combined piston/jet power.
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Jason McDowell is a private pilot and Cessna 170 owner based in Madison, Wisconsin. He enjoys researching obscure aviation history and serves as a judge for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association. He can be found on Instagram as @cessnateur.
