requirement was for low-level bombing and close support. The XB-51 lost out in evaluation to the English Electric Canberra which - built by Martin - entered service as the Martin B-57 Canberra.
Chuck Yeager seen here.
The concept of formation deck landings was rapidly dismissed as impractical.
Early 60’s joint refueling enterprise. Wonderful collection of hardware.
Northrop YB-49 first flight 21 October 1947
production passed over in favor of more conventional B-36 piston. Design work performed in development of YB-35 and YB-49 proved valuable to Northrop decades later in development of B-2 stealth bomber, which entered service early 1990s
30 May 1949 while diving first AW52 at 320 mph test pilot J.O Lancaster encountered pitch oscillation caused by elevon flutter. With structural failure imminent, Lancaster ejected from aircraft using its MB Mk.1 ejection seat, first British pilot to use seat in a "live" emergency
