|
B-58
Hustler
The
delta-wing Hustler was the first USAF supersonic operational bomber. The
B-58 made its initial flight on Nov. 11, 1956 and flew supersonically on
Dec. 30, 1956. Distinctive B-58 features included its sophisticated inertial
guidance navigation and bombing system, slender "wasp-waist" fuselage, and
extensive use of heat-resistant honeycomb sandwich skin panels in the wings
and fuselage. The thin fuselage prevented internal carriage of bombs so an
external droppable two-component pod beneath the fuselage contained extra
fuel and a nuclear weapon, reconnaissance equipment, or other specialized
gear. The B-58 crew consisted of a pilot, navigator-bombardier, and defense
systems operator.
The USAF
ordered 86 Hustlers which were operational in the Strategic Air Command
between 1960 and 1970. B-58s set 19 world speed and altitude records and won
five different aviation trophies.
The
B-58A in the photos flew from Los Angeles to New York and returned on March
5, 1962, setting three separate speed records and earning the crew the
Bendix and Mackay Trophies for 1962.
(NMUSAF)
On
this day the nose probe has been removed while the aircraft was being mover
around.
Click on
the thumbnails below to view larger images.
Details
 
Crew Seat and Escape
Module
Return to the Main Walkarounds Page.
|
