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B-58A “Hustler”

The B-58 Hustler saw great success during its relatively short service career. It was the first supersonic bomber, the first bomber to reach Mach 2, the first aircraft made of stainless-steel honeycomb sandwich and the first aircraft to have stellar-inertial navigation. The B-58 also set more world speed records than any other type of combat aircraft.  

Our B-58, S/N 61-2059 was accepted by the USAF on February 16, 1962.  

Specifications

Aircraft Type: B-58, S/N 61-2059  

Mission: Medium supersonic nuclear bomber  

Number Built: 116 (All models)  

Powerplant: Four General Electric J79-5B afterburning turbojets, 15,600 pounds thrust each  

Weight: Empty 55,560 pounds, loaded 164,500 pounds, maximum take-off weight 165,000 pounds  

Dimensions: Wingspan 56’10″, length 96’9″, height 31’5″  

Performance: Maximum speed 1,385 MPH (Mach 2.1) at 44,000 feet, cruising speed 600+ MPH, service ceiling 64,000 feet  

Additional Exhibits