633 VGS OPERATES FOUR GROB 109B VIGILANT TMK1 MOTOR-GLIDERS
THESE ARE:
ZH 187
ZH 188
ZH 193
ZH 249
DESCRIPTION
The Vigilant T MK 1 is a Touring Motor
Glider (TMG) designed and built in Germany, but modified to incorporate RAF
requirements.
The Grob 109, or Vigilant as we know it, differs from other Air Cadet Gliders in
that it has an engine and propeller, so it can launch itself.
The Vigilant flies pretty much like a light aircraft. However, it can be flown
as a glider by allowing the engine to idle or, for some advanced exercises, with
the engine off all together. It can soar in thermals given reasonable thermic
conditions. Having an engine means that the ground handling time is reduced and
manpower requirements are less than the Viking.
The Vigilant is used for GIC, GS and AGT training and, unlike the Viking where
you may experience a number of 5-7 minute flights in order to achieve training
objectives, Vigilant sorties can last anything up to an hour or more if
necessary.
TECHNICAL DATA
Span: 17.4m (57.1ft)
Length: 8.1m (26.6ft)
Height: 1.7m (5.6ft)
Aspect Ratio: 16:1
Wing Area: 19m² (204.5ft²)
Max. Flying Weight: 908kg (2002lbs)
Max. Wing Loading: 47.8kg/m² (9.8lbs/ft²)
ENGINE
Grob 2500 horizontally opposed 4 cylinder
air cooled
MAXIMUM SPEEDS
Never exceed speed in calm air: 130kts (below 6500ft up to 850kg)
Normal operations in calm air: 117kts (up to 850kg)
Max. speed in turbulence/manoeuvring: 83kts (up to 850kg)
FLIGHT PERFORMANCE
Acceleration limits: +3.5/0g (up to 850kg)
Best angle of climb: 49kts
Best rate of climb: 60 kts (fine pitch) 75kts (coarse pitch)
Best glide angle: 1:28
Cruise fuel consumption: 12-15 litres per hour (100ltr tank)
MASS AND BALANCE
Max all up mass for take-off/landing: 908kg
Max baggage: 17kg
Max fuel mass: 72kg
Max crew mass for solo flight: 110kg
Max crew mass for dual flight: 220kg
CG limits: 271mm forward to 427mm aft of datum
