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Convair XB-36 -initially ordered in November 1941, the
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Convair XB-36 -initially ordered in November 1941, the
Convair XB-36 -initially ordered in November 1941, the first of these giant six engined bombers did not fly until August 1946
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Media ID 14222083
© Hugh W. Cowin Aviation Collection / Mary Evans Picture Library
1941 1946 Bombers Convair Engined Giant Initially Ordered Secondflight
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This historic photograph captures the moment of the second flight of the Convair XB-36 bomber, which took place on August 8, 1946. The XB-36, initially ordered by the United States Army Air Force in November 1941, was a groundbreaking aircraft of its time, featuring six powerful engines and an impressive wingspan. However, due to the demands of World War II, production was delayed, and the first flight did not occur until September 1946. The XB-36 was part of the B-36 Peacemaker bomber program, which aimed to create a long-range, heavy bomber capable of delivering nuclear weapons to targets deep within enemy territory. The aircraft was designed by the Consolidated Vultee Aircraft Corporation, later known as Convair, and was a significant development in aviation history. With a maximum takeoff weight of over 100,000 pounds and a range of over 6,000 miles, the XB-36 was a formidable military asset. Its six Wright R-3350 Duplex-Cyclone engines provided a top speed of over 300 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest bombers of its era. The second flight of the XB-36, seen in this photograph, was an important milestone in the development of the aircraft. It allowed engineers and test pilots to gather valuable data on the XB-36's performance and handling characteristics, paving the way for further refinements and improvements. The Convair XB-36 went on to have a distinguished military career, serving with the United States Air Force from 1948 until the late 1950s. It was eventually replaced by more advanced bomber models, but its legacy as a pioneering aircraft in the field of long-range, heavy bombers lived on.
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