The Armstrong Siddeley Screamer was a British rocket engine intended to power the Avro 720 manned interceptor aircraft (Avro's competitor to the Saunders-Roe SR.53 for a rocket-powered interceptor). Thrust was variable, up to a maximum of 8,000lbf (36kN).

Design and development

Work on the Screamer started in 1946, with the first static test at Armstrong Siddeley's rocket plant at Ansty in March 1954. The programme was cancelled, as was the Avro 720, before flight testing.

In 1951, a Gloster Meteor F.8 was experimentally fitted with a Screamer mounted below the fuselage.

The Screamer project was cancelled in March 1956, at a reported total cost of £650,000.

Engines on display

Specifications

General characteristics

  • Type: Variable thrust liquid-propellant rocket engine
  • Length: 78.5 in (199.4 cm)
  • Diameter: 27 in (68.6)
  • Dry weight: 470 lb (213.2 kg)
  • Fuel: Kerosene
  • Oxidiser: Liquid oxygen (LOX) and filtered water (coolant)

Components

  • Pumps: Three pumps

Performance

  • Thrust: 9,500 lb (42 kN) at 40,000 ft (12,200 metres) (estimated)
  • Burn time:

See also

Comparable engines

Related lists

External links

  • (image). Flight International.