The delta-wing Hustler was the first USAF supersonic operational bomber. The B-58 made its initial flight on Nov. 11, 1956 and flew supersonically on Dec. 30, 1956. Distinctive B-58 features included its sophisticated inertial guidance navigation and bombing system, slender "wasp-waist" fuselage, and extensive use of heat-resistant honeycomb sandwich skin panels in the wings and fuselage.
The thin fuselage prevented internal carriage of bombs so an external droppable two-component pod beneath the fuselage contained extra fuel and a nuclear weapon, reconnaissance equipment, or other specialized gear.
The B-58 crew consisted of a pilot, navigator-bombardier, and defense systems operator.
The USAF ordered 86 Hustlers which were operational in the Strategic Air Command between 1960 and 1970. B-58s set 19 world speed and altitude records and won five different aviation trophies. Note:There were a total of 116 B-58s built: 30 test and pre-production aircraft and 86 for inventory.
The B-58A on display flew from Los Angeles to New York and returned on March 5, 1962, setting three separate speed records and earning the crew the Bendix and Mackay Trophies for 1962. It was flown to the Museum in Dec. 1969.
SPECIFICATIONS
Span: 56 ft. 10 in.
Length: 96 ft. 10 in.
Height: 31 ft. 5 in.
Weight: 163,000 lbs. max.
Armament: One 20mm cannon in tail; nuclear weapons in pod or on under-wing pylons
Engines: Four General Electric J79s of 15,000 lbs. thrust ea. with afterburner
Cost: $12,442,000
PERFORMANCE
Maximum speed: 1,325 mph
Cruising speed: 610 mph.
Range: 4,400 miles without aerial refueling
Service Ceiling: 64,800 ft.