The Quail, originally designated the GAM-72, was an air-launched decoy missile carried by the B-52 strategic bomber. Designed to produce a radar images very similar to that of the B-52 and to fly at approximately the same speed and altitude, the Quail was planned to be used during an actual bombing attack to confuse an enemy's defensive radar network. With both Quails and B-52s penetrating the enemy's air space, it would be difficult to distinguish one from the other on his radar.
In order to fit inside the B-52 bomb bay, the Quail was equipped with folding wings. During launch, the wings unfolded for flight.
TECHNICAL NOTES: Engine: General Electric J85-GE-3 of 2,450 lbs. thrust Operating speed: 650 mph Range: 400 miles Service ceiling: Over 50,000 ft. Span: 2 ft. 5 in. (wings folded); 5 ft. 5 in. (wings unfolded) Length: 12 ft. 11 in. Height: 2 ft. 2 in. (wings folded); 3 ft. 4 in. (wings unfolded) Weight: 1,198 lbs.
