Tthe 페어차일드 C-123 제공자 체이스 항공기에 의해 설계되고 이후 미국 공군을 위해 페어차일드 항공기에 의해 만들어진 미국 군용 수송기이다. 공군 예비군 및 공군 방위군과 함께 나중에 복무하는 것을 포함하는 USAF 서비스 외에도 미국 해안 경비대 및 동남아시아의 다양한 공군과 함께 가장 주목할만한 서비스를 수행했습니다. 베트남 전쟁 동안, 항공기는 에이전트 오렌지를 살포하는 데 사용되었습니다.
Tthe C-123 Providerhas one of the most unusual origin stories in aviation history. Originally designed by Chase Aircraft as an all-metalassault glider(the XG-20), it proved so sturdy that engines were added to turn it into a transport. While the early “B” models relied on piston engines, theC-123Kwas the ultimate evolution. To handle the heavy loads and short, muddy runways of Vietnam, Fairchild added two auxiliary turbojets, giving the plane a distinctive “two-turning, two-burning” configuration.
2 × General Electric J85-GE-17 turbojets (2,850 lbf each)
최대 속도
228 mph (367 km/h)
페이로드
24,000 lbs (11,000 kg) or 60 troops / 50 litters
Takeoff Distance
Approx. 1,160 ft (with jet assistance)
Max Takeoff Weight
60,000 lbs (27,215 kg)
The “Jet-Pod” Advantage
Boosted STOL Performance:The “K” model’s two underwingJ85 jet podswere used primarily for takeoff and climb-out. This extra thrust allowed the Provider to clear jungle treelines while carrying maximum weight from short, unimproved dirt strips.
The “In-Flight” Safety Net:In the event of a piston engine failure—a common occurrence in the humid, high-stress environment of Vietnam—the auxiliary jets could be fired up to maintain altitude and help the crew return to base safely.
High-Flotation Landing Gear:To support its role as an “assault” transport, the C-123 used wide, low-pressure tires and a sturdy tricycle landing gear that allowed it to land on surfaces that would bog down more delicate aircraft.
Rear Loading Ramp:Like modern transports, the C-123 featured a large rear ramp that could be lowered in flight for air-dropping supplies or on the ground for rapid loading of vehicles and troops.
Vietnam Service & “Patches”
Operation Ranch Hand:The C-123 is famously (and controversially) associated with the spraying ofAgent Orange. Modified variants, known asUC-123K, flew low and slow over the jungle to strip away enemy cover.
“Patches”:One of the most famous C-123s, namedPatches, earned its name from the nearly 600 shrapnel and bullet hole repairs it accumulated during the war. It is now preserved at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force.
Special Ops & Black Spot:Two Providers were converted intoNC-123K “Black Spot”night attackers, equipped with a long nose housing radar and sensors to hunt trucks along the Ho Chi Minh Trail—a precursor to modern gunships.
Hollywood Star:Beyond its military service, the C-123 became a pop-culture icon, most notably starring as the “Jailbird” in the 1997 action filmCon Air.
