An intriguing and often overlooked chapter in U.S. military aviation history is the conversion of front-line aircraft into remotely piloted drones, which is the topic of a new book, Q-Birds: American Manned Aircraft as Drones by General Aviation News columnist Frederick A Johnsen.
According to Johnsen, this practice dates back to the 1920s, gained traction during World War II, and reached its zenith during the Cold War when a surplus of military airframes became available. These aircraft served as testbeds, flying bombs, and target drones, playing a pivotal role in the development of modern aviation and weaponry.
Over the decades, the list of manned aircraft converted to drones reads like a catalog of aviation history.
According to Johnsen, it includes models such as the P-12, B-17, PB4Y-1, PB4Y-2, SB2C, F-80, T-33, F6F, F-86, B-29, B-47, F9F Panther and Cougar, F-100, F-102, F-104, F-106, F-4, F-16, P-39, and even the Boeing 720.
These drones performed diverse missions — from testing experimental systems to acting as missile targets and intercept training platforms. One of the most classified postwar projects, codenamed Banshee, aimed to use remotely controlled B-29s as one-way nuclear delivery vehicles, Johnsen notes.
Since the 1970s, Johnsen has visited numerous drone conversion sites, including facilities where F-100s and F-102s were modified, as well as ranges where these drones were deployed.
His extensive files include a treasure trove of rare and mostly unpublished photographs. Among the highlights, Johnsen has documented the final Boeing B-17G to roll off the Seattle production line, which was later repurposed and ultimately destroyed as a QB-17 drone.
The new book offers aviation historians and enthusiasts an unparalleled look at a neglected aspect of military aviation history. From the technical innovations to the operational use of these drones, it shines a light on a compelling and secretive side of post-World War II U.S. military aviation.
Q-Birds: American Manned Aircraft as Drones is hardcover book with approximately 225 photos and line drawings. It is available from Amazon for $38.29.
