Even before the spectacular success of its X-1 rocket-powered aircraft in breaking the `sound barrier', the adventurous Bell Aircraft Corporation was already pushing ahead with a parallel project to build a second aircraft capable of far higher speeds. The X-2 (or Model 52) explored the equally uncertain technology of swept-back wings. Now common in modern conventional fighter aircraft, the Bell X-2 was revolutionary in using this type of airframe to probe Mach 3 and research the effects of extreme aerodynamic friction heat on airframes.
Although both X-2s were destroyed in crashes after only 20 flights, killing
two test pilots, the knowledge gained from the programme was invaluable in
developing aircraft that could safely fly at such speeds. Using stunning artwork
and historical photographs, this is the story of the plane that ultimately made
the Lockheed Blackbird and Concorde possible.
Author Biography
Peter E. Davies has written or co-written nineteen books on modern American
combat aircraft, including the standard reference work on US Navy and Marine
Corps Phantom II operations, Gray Ghosts. He is based in Bristol, UK.
