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Convair B-58 Hustler |
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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. There were a total of 116 B-58s built: 30
test and pre-production aircraft and 86 for inventory.
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Convair B-58A
Hustler (above)
From our Standard Series. 1/72nd scale. 9.75"
wingspan x 16.75" long
No. AFB5D-ST. Only $129.95
Convair
B-58A Hustler
From our Premier Series. 1/68th scale. 10.25"
wingspan x 17.5" long.
No. AFB5D-PR. Only $184.95 |
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