The Convair delta-wing "Hustler" was the first supersonic operational bomber.
The B-58 made its initial flight on Nov. 11, 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-58's set 19 world speed and altitude
records and won five different aviation trophies. Note:There were a total of
116 B-58's built: 30 test and pre-production aircraft and 86 for inventory.
Source and Link:
U.S.A.F. Museum.Fully assembled, Handcrafted Model Aircraft with
Removable Desk Stand.
(Scale: 1/72, Length: 16.75", Wing Span: 9.75")
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