First Flight:
September 21, 1964
Mission: Initial mission was as mach 3 bomber, reassigned as test bed to test
principles of compression lift.
Major Accomplishments: Proved concept of compression lift in high speed flight.
Power Source: Six (6) General Electric YJ93-GE-3 turbojet engines. Each
engine capable of producing up to 31,000 lb (14,060 kg) thrust (with afterburner).
Wing Span: 105 ft, 0 in (32.00 m)
Length: 196 ft, 0 in (59.74 m)
Maximum Achieved Speed: Mach 3
Maximum Achieved Altitude: 70,000 ft
Additional Information: The XB-70 was the most exotic of the X-planes, and
likely the most exotic aircraft ever flown. It was originally designed for the Strategic
Air Command in the late 1950's as a replacement for the B-52 bomber, capable of
reaching Mach 3 at altitudes exceeding 70,000 ft.
The XB-70 was designed to take advantage of the aerodynamic affect known as
"compression lift". This phenomenon uses the shock wave that is generated during
supersonic flight to produce lift to support some of the aircraft's weight.
The wing tips of the XB-70 could be dropped up to 65 degrees to improve flight stability
during supersonic flight. The plane was made of honeycombed stainless-steel panels and
titanium.
Due to high construction and maintenance cost, the project was quickly made the
successful target of Congressional cuts.
Only two XB-70s were built. The number 2 aircraft was involved in a fatal in-air collision
with on of its F-104 chase planes apparently was drawn into the powerful vortex created
from the delta wing, and rolled across the rear wing surface, destroying both vertical
tail-fins. The plane remained stable for a short time, then rolled over and crashed into
the desert floor.
The remaining Valkyrie continued in service until February 4, 1969 when it was flown to
the Wright Patterson AFB in Dayton Ohio. The plane is now housed in the US Air Force
Museum at the same site.
XB-70 As displayed at the USAF Museum
(You can't get this plane in 1 image. For more museum images go to http://www.wpafb.af.mil/museum/modern_flight/mf37.htm
Includes great cockpit images! )
Image courtesy of the USAF Museum
