Aerodynamic prototype for the WF-2 / E-1 Tracer, converted from and still marked as a TF-1 (C-1A). Photo almost certainly taken at Bethpage during early testing. Airframe was reconverted to a C-1 in 1969 but retained its twin tails, see R.A. Scholefield's photo. Photo by: Rudy Arnold / Smithsonian Institution

A very unusual Trader. This aircraft was built as a standard TF-1 (C-1A), but after leaving the production line in July 1956 it was converted as the aerodynamic prototype for the WF-2 (E-1B) Tracer AEW project. It was fitted with the dual fins of the Tracer and a large dummy aluminium dorsal radome. It first flew as such on 17 Dec 1956, still retaining its TF-1 type designation. The dummy radome was later removed, but the aircraft kept its twin fins and continued to serve as a utility transport aircraft, still designated as a standard TF-1 (redesignated to C-1A in Sep 1962). It was operated as a hack by NAS Cecil Field and a serpent-like Cecil appears on the rear engine cowling.