Fleetwings BQ-1 and BQ-2A Drone Bombs

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Faced with Japanese kamikaze planes in the Pacific, the US Army Air Forces command decided in 1942 to launch its program for creating “flying torpedoes” (unmanned flying bombs). In July 1942, Fleetwings began developing an attack UAV, designated XBQ-1. The creation process for this guided bomb faced delays.

In 1943, a variant, the YPQ-12 target drone equipped with a television camera and a small bomb, was successfully tested. However, the XBQ-1’s development continued to struggle.

Table of Contents

The XBQ-1 Prototype and Its Demise

It wasn’t until May 1944 that the first XBQ-1 prototype (42-79561) took to the air. This mid-wing aircraft was equipped with two Franklin O-405-7 engines, each producing 225 hp (168 kW). The XBQ-1 was designed to carry a 910-kilogram warhead at a speed of 362 km/h over a distance exceeding 2700 kilometers.

Tragically, the UAV crashed during its very first flight, leading to the immediate termination of further development for this variant.

Introduction of the XBQ-2A

Concurrently with the BQ-1, Fleetwings was also developing a more advanced model, the BQ-2, initially with Lycoming XO-435-3 engines. During its construction, these engines were replaced with more powerful 280 hp Lycoming R-680-13 units, and the designation was changed to XBQ-2A.

The XBQ-2A featured non-retractable landing gear that could be jettisoned to increase speed. It also retained the capability for manned piloting of the “flying torpedo.” The first flight of the XBQ-2A (42-79562) took place in the summer of 1943, with testing continuing until December 1943. Ultimately, the US Army Air Forces command decided the project was too expensive for practical application and ceased funding.

Technical Specifications

Modification	XBQ-2A
Wingspan, m	14.81
Takeoff	3493
Engine type	2 Piston engines Lycoming R-680-13
Power, hp	2 x 280
Cruising speed, km/h	362
Practical range, km	2763
Load:	910 kg of explosives

Image and diagram gallery of the Fleetwings BQ-1 and BQ-2A Drone Bombs

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ArchivoAéreo Editorial Team

A group of aviation researchers and enthusiasts dedicated to documenting and preserving global aeronautical history. All articles are reviewed to ensure historical accuracy.

Sources & Accuracy

The information presented in this technical sheet has been compiled from declassified flight manuals, historical archives, and specialized literature. While we strive for maximum accuracy, some performance data may vary depending on the specific variant or operational conditions.

BQ-1(2)	BQ-1(2)
BQ-1(2)	BQ-1(2)
BQ-1(2)	BQ-1(2)
BQ-1(2)	BQ-1(2)