The E-Systems XQM-93A aircraft is part of the US Air Force’s early 1970s “Compass Dwell” program evaluating the possibility of high-altitude Unmanned Autonomous Vehicles (UAV) for use in the Vietnam War. As one of the competitors for “Compass Dwell,” LTV (later E-Systems) introduced its piloted L450F. The next prototype, the E-Systems ZQM-93A, could be piloted or unmanned. Unfortunately, the goal of cutting off supplies on the Ho Chi Minh Trail with unmanned eyes in the sky never materialized when the “Compass Dwell” program ended.
E-Systems XQM-93A (L450F)
Did you know?
The longest flight of the XQM-93A lasted more than 21 hours.
This military research followed the 1960’s HALE (high altitude, long endurance) vehicle studies.
This military research followed the 1960’s HALE (high altitude, long endurance) vehicle studies.
About our Aircraft
Our E-Systems XQM-93A has a pilot’s bubble canopy rather than the unmanned version with a flush fuselage. It is on loan from the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola, Florida.

Image Credit: US Air Force

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Aircraft Type: Military Prototype
First Flight: 1972
Powerplant: One Pratt & Whitney PT6A-34 Turboprop Engine, 475 hp
Weight: 2,400 lbs.
Dimensions: Wingspan 57'0", Length 29'7", Height 10'8"
Performance: Cruise Speed 105 mph, Rate of Climb 914 ft/min
First Flight: 1972
Powerplant: One Pratt & Whitney PT6A-34 Turboprop Engine, 475 hp
Weight: 2,400 lbs.
Dimensions: Wingspan 57'0", Length 29'7", Height 10'8"
Performance: Cruise Speed 105 mph, Rate of Climb 914 ft/min

Image Credit: Thomas H. Tessier, Used with Permission, 2020