1960 and Beyond
1962:
The bomber-naming system is simplified. The "B" designation is kept for bombers, but the numbering system starts over. (That would explain the Stealth Spirit Bombers being B-2s; I was wondering about that).
The two-stage Titan I and Atlas, the nation's first liquid-fueled, strategic, intercontinental ballistic missiles become operational.
1967:
Conceived in 1960 before the new naming convention went into effect, General Dynamics' F-111 Aardvark enters service as a tactical bomber.
1982: Designs for the supersonic B-1 Lancer begin in 1972, but the planes are not ordered until 1982. The first plane is delivered in 1984.
1988:
The Northrup Grumman B-2 Spirit, popularly known as the stealth bomber, is introduced. It uses sophisticated low-observable technologies, high aerodynamical efficiency and sizable payloads to accomplish missions.
Stuff You Didn't Know. --Cooter
No comments:
Post a Comment