B-36 'Peacemaker' Units of the Cold War

Auteurs

• Peter Davies

Paramètres

• Sciences sociales
• Thème historique

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This fully illustrated study delves into the remarkable Convair B-36 during the Cold War. Developed in 1941 as a contingency for a potential German occupation of Britain, the B-36 was designed as a '10,000-mile bomber' equipped with heavy defensive armament and six engines, aimed at evading fighter interception. Despite rapid advancements in jet technology rendering it somewhat obsolete, the B-36 played a crucial role in various nuclear test programs and served as a key component of the US nuclear deterrent until the B-52's introduction in 1955. Notably, it was one of the first aircraft to incorporate significant amounts of magnesium, earning it the nickname 'Magnesium Overcast.' The aircraft's impressive dimensions and complexity included 27 miles of wiring, a wingspan greater than the Wright brothers' first flight, engine power equivalent to 400 cars, and an internal capacity comparable to three five-room houses, along with 27,000 gallons of fuel—enough to drive around the world 18 times. The B-36 remained in service until its retirement in February 1959 after 11 years with SAC. Convair employees proposed various names for the aircraft, with 'Peacemaker' being the most favored, although it was never officially adopted due to objections from religious groups. This volume features first-hand accounts, original photographs, and up to 30 profile artworks illustrating the B-36's intricate design.

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• Année de publication: 2022
• Reliure: (souple)