Info:
The SCB-48 Overture II emerged in 1979 as an improvement upon the initial failure of the SCB-38 Overture. The original aircraft's swing-wing design was found to be flawed, prompting a redesign that featured swept wings instead. This modification significantly enhanced the aircraft's performance and reliability. The SCB-48 Overture II has a remarkable payload capacity, able to carry approximately 50,000 pounds of ordnance. Following its initial flight in 1983, the aircraft has been in continuous service, fulfilling various roles for numerous countries. Its enduring presence in military operations underscores its effectiveness and the successful resolution of the design issues that plagued its predecessor.
A total of 1,327 SCB-48 Overture II aircraft were produced, with approximately 600 of them being allocated to Starcrest's private air defense forces, known as the Starcrest United Air Corps. Initially, the United States Air Force intended to acquire 150 of these aircraft, but ultimately decided to shift their focus towards the F-15E Strike Eagle. Consequently, they purchased 39 Overture II bombers for training purposes instead. Other significant buyers of the SCB-48 Overture II included Italy, Great Britain, and Germany, all of which were seeking to replace their aging Tornado aircraft. Production of the SCB-48 Overture II ceased in 2002 as Starcrest shifted its focus to heavy strategic bombers. Despite its successful service history, the Overture II was eventually retired from Starcrest's fleet in 2011. The widespread adoption of the Overture II underscores its versatility and effectiveness in various military applications across multiple countries.
Specifications
General Characteristics
- Created On Windows
- Wingspan 48.2ft (14.7m)
- Length 75.6ft (23.0m)
- Height 22.7ft (6.9m)
- Empty Weight 28,537lbs (12,944kg)
- Loaded Weight 77,141lbs (34,991kg)
Performance
- Power/Weight Ratio 7.865
- Wing Loading 86.9lbs/ft2 (424.5kg/m2)
- Wing Area 887.3ft2 (82.4m2)
- Drag Points 6214
Parts
- Number of Parts 152
- Control Surfaces 5
- Performance Cost 847