46-0523 United States Air Force McDonnell XF-85 Goblin

Remark

On display in the Research & Development Gallery at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. Designed as a “parasite” fighter intended to be lowered from the bomb bay of a B-36, it was meant to replace conventional escort fighters that did not have the range. Trials were carried out in 1948 using a modified EB-29 nicknamed “Monstro”. Test pilot Ed Schoch could launch the Goblin, but attempts to recover it by hooking onto the trapeze were dangerous due to the turbulent air under the EB-29. The program ended in 1949 as aerial refuelling of fighters showed greater promise.