Grob Vigilant
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 can taxi, take off and climb under its own power to a height selected by the instructor. 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. The engine is not powerful enough for rapid climbing, taking some five minutes or so to reach 2,000 feet. However, 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 5-7 minute flights in order to achieve training objectives, Vigilant sorties typically last for about 45 minutes. The Vigilant T MK 1 is a self-launching motor glider designed and built in Germany but modified to incorporate RAF requirements.
The Vigilant can taxi, take off and climb under its own power to a height selected by the instructor. 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. The engine is not powerful enough for rapid climbing, taking some five minutes or so to reach 2,000 feet. However, 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 5-7 minute flights in order to achieve training objectives, Vigilant sorties typically last for about 45 minutes. The Vigilant T MK 1 is a self-launching motor glider designed and built in Germany but modified to incorporate RAF requirements.
Specification
Wing Span 17.4m (57ft 1in)
Overall Length 8.1m (26ft 6in)
Height 1.7m (5ft 6in)
Fuel Capacity 100 litres (AVGAS)
Range (powered) 700 Nautical Miles
Max permitted speed 121 knots
Max permitted height 8,000ft
Normal glide speed 60 knots