Stearman XBT-17

The Genesis: Stearman Model X-90

The first monoplane from Stearman Aircraft Company was an elementary trainer aircraft, designated Stearman Model X-90. The aircraft, featuring wooden wings and a fuselage nose section made of steel tubes, was equipped with a nine-cylinder Lycoming R-680-B4D engine producing 225 hp (168 kW).

Evolution to Stearman Model X-91

The sole example of the aircraft (registration number NX21924) first flew in 1940. The X-90 did not generate interest from the military, leading to the project being upgraded into a basic trainer aircraft. This variant, powered by a Pratt & Whitney R-985-AN-1 Wasp Junior engine delivering 450 hp (336 kW), was designated Stearman Model X-91.

Military Trials and Project Closure (XBT-17)

In January 1942, the trainer was transferred to the U.S. Army Air Forces for testing, where it received the designation XBT-17 and serial number 42-8726. Failing to show anything outstanding, the aircraft was not accepted by the military, and the project was closed.

Technical Specifications

Modification	X BT-17
Wingspan, m	10.90
Length, m	8.46
Height, m	2.57
Wing area, m2	19.00
Empty weight	1 397
Maximum takeoff weight	1882
Engine type	1 Piston engine Pratt & Whitney R-985-AN-1 Wasp Junior
Power, hp	1 x 450
Maximum speed, km/h	306
Cruising speed, km/h	257
Practical range, km	650
Rate of climb, m/min	396
Service ceiling, m	6096
Crew	2

Image and diagram gallery of the Stearman XBT-17

BT-17	BT-17
BT-17	BT-17
BT-17	BT-17