Profile image

XB-59

825 Crossfield5315  4.0 years ago

The XB-59, Boeing model number 701, was a 1950s proposal for a United States supersonic bomber aircraft.

Developed under weapons system designation MX-1965, the XB-59 was to have a crew of three, and would be powered by four GE J73-X24A turbojet engines, mounted in the roots of the wings. The landing gear would be similar to the bicycle arrangement found on the B-47 Stratojet and B-52 Stratofortress, with wingtip-mounted outriggers.

The Boeing contract for the XB-59 was canceled in late 1952 after the Convair company's submission, designated B-58 Hustler, was selected for development.

The Boeing effort was a design study only, and no construction was involved.

Spotlights

General Characteristics

  • Created On Windows
  • Wingspan 68.3ft (20.8m)
  • Length 105.4ft (32.1m)
  • Height 22.3ft (6.8m)
  • Empty Weight 54,857lbs (24,883kg)
  • Loaded Weight 72,867lbs (33,052kg)

Performance

  • Power/Weight Ratio 3.546
  • Wing Loading 149.4lbs/ft2 (729.4kg/m2)
  • Wing Area 487.7ft2 (45.3m2)
  • Drag Points 19650

Parts

  • Number of Parts 257
  • Control Surfaces 17
  • Performance Cost 1,031