Curtiss PN-1

The Curtiss PN-1 was an experimental night-fighter biplane of 1921, its designation standing for "Pursuit, Night, 1." It was designed by the U.S. Army's Engineering Division to meet a requirement for a dedicated night interceptor and was built by Curtiss. The design drew on the successful Fokker D.VII, with a similar flat-sided fuselage shape, and was powered by a 220 hp Liberty 6 inline engine. To preserve the pilot's night vision, the aircraft carried very long exhaust pipes that carried engine flames well behind the cockpit.

The first prototype was delivered for testing in August 1921, but its performance proved disappointing; the second airframe was relegated to static testing and the third was cancelled before completion. Armed with two .30-caliber Browning machine guns, the PN-1 never entered production but stands as an early and unusual attempt at a purpose-built American night fighter.