The Seabolt was an experimental multi-role aircraft tested by the Navy in late 1947. The Navy was interested in aircraft that could perform a wide variety of missions with minimal reconfiguration. The USAAF P-47N won some grudging admiration from naval planners as a rugged aircraft that had great range and speed, and could be versatile in mission requirements. The obvious modification was the V-tail assembly in a weight saving (range increasing) feature, and secondly, the engine combination came from the P-47J, which allowed speeds up to 475 mph.
Contra rotating props, a commonly tried application during this time period were also utilized, and were effective at eliminating torque roll on takeoff. Other less noticeable changes included an enlarged bubble canopy, which allowed the pilot to raise his seat for better visibility during carrier landings. The aircraft as pictured had its gun armament removed and was tested in the photo recon role. Even though testing was favorable, the Navy felt that the new Skyraider and follow on Skyshark programs would be sufficient to fulfill this need, and was therefore not adopted. The airframe remained after testing at the Patuxent River Naval Air Station until it was scrapped in 1954.
This is the ancient Revell kit, with some Airfix and VEB items ground into it
It was thrown together quickly, and it shows. Running for cover now in a serpentine fashion
Hope you all have a great day
Kem
