Ho X (Ho XIII b) Supersonic Delta Wing

The Ho X designation was used twice; once for our supersonic project, and also for three ultralight designs in Argentina.

Our supersonic aircraft was under development in great secrecy in Bad Hersfeld. A full size glider with 70 degree nose angle and 20 ft span was being built, while glider models were flown at Hornberg to investigate subsonic handling and landing problems. With the powerful He S-011 jet engine, a speed of Mach 1.4 was calculated. It would penetrate the sound barrier in a dive, and then maintain level supersonic flight. A prone pilot position was planned.

 To survive a bailout at supersonic speed, and also of function at very high altitude, I believed that the pilot would have to be submerged in water! Therefore some "water-cockpit" renderings were made.

 The short span and problems in the transonic range made drag rudders impractical, and a conventional fin and rudder was used.

 The almost finished glider was destroyed as the Allied troops approached in 1945.