That Time Lockheed Looked into the Idea of Creating a Nuclear Powered, Flying Aircraft Carrier

The CL-1201 was the name given to a proposed transport aircraft for the United States Air Force. But this was not your standard military transport, as this thing would have been absolutely massive.

The Specifications of the CL-1201

Using a Nuclear Reactor to power four massive engines, the CL-1201 would have a wingspan of 1,120 feet and would also be fitted with 182 smaller jet engines that would have given it “VTOL” capability.

Also, the CL-1201 would carry a crew complement of 400-800 personnel. Depending on the variant, and yes, there were different variants to this aircraft. Apart from being a strategic transport, two other versions were planned. One being a flying aircraft carrier which would carry modified jet fighters. While the other one was believed to have been more of a command ship of sorts. Though there really isn’t that much information on that particular variant.

The Outcome of the CL-1201 Proposal

But like a lot of proposed aircraft during the Cold War, the CL-1201 never left the drawing board and remained only a concept. But it kinda makes you wonder just how U.S. Doctrine would change if such aircraft were not only built but placed into service. ~NC