Schweizer X-26 Frigate

The Schweizer X‑26 “Frigate” is a two‑seat, side‑by‑side training glider built by the Schweizer Aircraft Corporation in the early 1960s. Developed from the civilian SGS 2‑33, the X‑26 was selected by the United States Navy and Marine Corps as a low‑cost platform for primary flight screening and basic airmanship instruction. Its first flight occurred in 1963, and the Navy subsequently acquired several hundred airframes, designating them as the X‑26A. The aircraft’s simple, rugged construction—an all‑metal fuselage mated to fabric‑covered, constant‑chord wings of 45 ft span—made it ideal for the harsh conditions of carrier‑based training, though it never operated from decks. Key features include a side‑by‑side cockpit with dual controls, large transparent canopies for excellent visibility, and effective upper‑surface air‑brakes that allow rapid descent and safe landings on short fields. The X‑26’s modest glide ratio of about 15:1 and forgiving stall characteristics enabled novice pilots to develop coordination and situational awareness before advancing to powered aircraft. Its widespread use marked the first systematic integration of glider training into naval aviation curricula, influencing later trainer designs and underscoring the value of economical, low‑risk flight experiences in pilot development.

Schweizer Aircraft Corporation

Schweizer X-26 Frigate

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