I am just starting the old Dragon 1/72 kit. It is very bare as far as ordnance goes and I dont feel like scratching a weapons bay. Would drop tanks be appropriate ? I cant find any reference photos with tanks apart from one which was a “what if” build if the Yf-23 had been accepted for production and entered service.
I do not think drop tanks would be appropriate. It seems like such drop tanks would negate the stealth characteristics of the plane. I did a quick google image search and I didn’t see any wing mounted drop tanks. I’m no expert, but that’s my best guess.
I was fortunate to get to walk around and under one of the two built YF-23 prototypes in a hanger waiting for its new home in the USAF Museum. This is the best picture I could get as it was parked under the nose of the only XB-70. Needless to say I was in awe! The YF-23 was clean underneath. Being stealthy I doubt it would ever carry drops. Of course it’s just a prototype that went no further so hard to say. I think I myself would build the model for what it is, one of the only two in existence.
Max
I don’t believe the YF-23 was ever plummed for external tanks. The plane’s internal fuel capacity was impressive. My understanding is that the YF-23 can actually carry more fuel internally than the F-22 can with external tanks.
Thanks Guys- clean it is !
on the other hand the F-22 has drop tanks and I’m sure there needs to be some external capability for ferry flights with out having to hit a tanker a bunch of times.
Clean is also nice…
Kevin
The YF-23 was set up for drop tanks. Like the F-22 the F-23 had tanks for ferry flights, also like the F-22 and F-35 there are combat missions that don’t require low observable. Defensive counter air is one IIRC.