Transall C-260

The Rat · January 23, 2015, 05:13:54 PM

In an attempt to increase the usefulness and sales of the Transall C-160, it was decided that a four-engined derivative should be constructed. Intended to serve in tropical areas, where extra power and lift would be of benefit, it was a simple conversion of the original airframe, with four Rolls Royce Tynes, increased span to create more lift and provide room for the extra engines, and fuselage plugs fore and aft of the wing. The main landing gear was also increased to six wheels per side in order to allow for greater payload.

The type was renumbered as the C-260. First flight took place in 1967, and it was painted in a two-tone tan and brown scheme, with light grey undersides, and the outside of the flight deck area painted white to reflect light and help keep the interior cool.

Handling was smooth, with no unexpected vices, and the extra power increased the payload significantly. Demonstration flights took the aircraft to various destinations in Africa, the Middle East, Australia, and South America. Unfortunately the projected unit cost was more than many prospective customers could bear, especially since the broadly comparable Lockheed C-130 Hercules was already a proven aircraft, and the program was terminated. Thoughts were given to using it as a company transport for large airframe components, but this was also deemed unnecessary, and no other civilian operators were forthcoming. The airframe was stored for a time at Toulouse, and was scrapped in 1971.

sandiego89 · January 23, 2015, 05:23:36 PM

That turned out great! Nice work on the surgery and the paint!

Captain Canada · January 23, 2015, 07:20:14 PM

Very nice Rat ! Sorry to hear it never made it into production

PR19_Kit · January 24, 2015, 02:28:14 AM

That looks really good Rat, but as you say, comparison with a C-130 is inevitable.

Dizzyfugu · January 24, 2015, 02:30:35 AM

Yeah!

NARSES2 · January 24, 2015, 05:52:55 AM

Remind me what scale that is again ?

Great work Capt

The Rat · January 24, 2015, 06:00:58 AM

Quote from: NARSES2 on January 24, 2015, 05:52:55 AM
Remind me what scale that is again ?

1/220th, if the box is to be believed.

NARSES2 · January 24, 2015, 06:05:46 AM

Ta, thought it was. Makes it even more

The Rat · January 24, 2015, 06:10:19 AM

I was remiss in not beginning my post by thanking the Great and Powerful Alvis 3.14159, who was kind enough to think of me when unloading some unwanted kits.

Green Dragon · January 29, 2015, 10:56:20 PM

Nicely done Rat!

Paul Harrison

Tophe · January 30, 2015, 10:06:07 AM

Great improvement on the Transall, and well done!