With that, the XF8U-3 prototype went airborne for the first time on June 2nd, 1958. In a U.S. Navy competition against the McDonnell F-4 prototype, the Crusader showed some key qualities including speed and control. At least three of the completed five XF8U-3 prototypes were flown during testing. The aircraft that would eventually become the Phantom II was selected ahead of the Vought submission as it provided a much larger payload-carrying capability and included a second crewman to handle the radar system. As such, work on the XF8U-3 concluded with the five airframes completed. These were then passed to NASA for high-altitude testing until the airframes were dismantled and destroyed.
During its test phase, the XF8U-3 exhibited a maximum demonstrated speed of Mach 2.39 flying at altitudes of 50,000 feet. Its listed service ceiling was 65,000 feet but testing showed one greater at 76,000 feet - hence NASA's interest in the aircraft. Cruising speeds ranged around 575 miles per hour with a rate-of-climb nearing 32,500 feet per minute. Ferry ranges reached 2,045 miles with a combat range expected around 645 miles. Dimensions included a length of 58 feet, 8 inches, a height of 16 feet, 4 inches, and a wingspan of 40 feet.
In comparison, the F-4E Phantom II model showcased a maximum speed of Mach 2.23 with cruise speeds in the 585mph range. Ferry range became 1,615 miles with a combat radius of 420 miles. Rate-of-climb was 41,300 feet per minute. The E-model also could carry a combat load of 18,650lbs to include air-to-air missiles as well as air-to-surface missiles and conventional drop ordnance. The cannon-and-missile-minded XF8U-3 was only ever truly designed as a fleet defense fighter to which its ordnance-carrying capabilities would have proven extremely limited.
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