PROGRAM PLANNING REPORT PROJECT 1794 EXTENSION PROGRAM

This document is a Program Planning Report for Project 1794, dated April 1957, prepared by Avro Aircraft Limited in Malton, Ontario, Canada. It outlines a comprehensive extension programme for the development of a VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) aircraft concept, designated Project 1794, in accordance with a Statement of Work dated 18 December 1956 and revised 11 February 1957. The programme is funded by the United States Air Force under Contract No. AF33(600)30161, Supplementary Agreement #3. The report serves to coordinate the USAF-funded research with Avro's private venture construction of a flying prototype, known as P.V. 704. The aircraft is described as a high-performance supersonic vehicle with a circular wing planform, where the entire interior of the wing is utilized for the propulsion system. The propulsion system consists of six Armstrong Siddeley Viper turbo-jets mounted radially, which act as gas generators to drive a pair of contra-rotating compressors. The report details the technical requirements across six primary sections: Design and Performance, Aerodynamics, Propulsion, Stability and Control, Structures, and Reporting/Costing. The design study aims to apply this VTOL concept to potential weapon systems, such as reconnaissance, interceptor, or fighter-bomber roles. Aerodynamic testing involves extensive wind tunnel work, including hovering, transition, subsonic, transonic, and supersonic regimes, utilizing various scale models. The propulsion section focuses on the development of the six-Viper engine rig, combustion and fuel system development, and shutter control mechanisms. Stability and control are identified as critical, particularly regarding pitch stabilization, which is achieved through a pneumatic system controlling exhaust shutters. The structural analysis addresses the unique circular wing configuration, including stress analysis for temperature effects and vibration testing. The total funding required for the USAF programme is $1,483,847 in Canadian funds, covering a twenty-month period from 1 February 1957 to 31 October 1958. The document includes detailed work charts, schedules, and cost estimates, and emphasizes that the programme is managed by the same personnel responsible for the previous Project 1794 study. The report concludes with administrative details regarding progress reporting and the submission of technical reports.