Theodore Roosevelt once said, "Speak softly and carry a big stick", which was the essence of Strategic Air Command's big stick, the B-36 Peacemaker. The B-36 was the mainstay of United States strategic deterrence policy during the early years of the Cold War. Given its ability to carry the largest thermonuclear weapon in the arsenal, the 21-ton Mark-17, the B-36 seemed purpose-built for the role. But it was simply in the right place at the right time. Its design started even before the United States entered World War II, long before the Cold War was imagined, and well before the advent of an air-droppable nuclear bomb.
The B-36 was a truly incredible aircraft and unlike any other in its day. Because of its immense size and unprecedented wingspan, it could lift more weight to higher altitudes than any other aircraft. It was the first, and only, true intercontinental bomber capable of flights of over 10,000 miles and remaining aloft for over 51 hours without refueling.
This "Quick Look" will leave you with a complete understanding of this amazing aircraft's history. It covers the aircraft's design and development, including its evolution from the Army Air Corps' "Giant Bomber" research projects to the Air Force's primary strategic deterrence weapon. It includes a complete aircraft lineage chart tracing every model and derivative, a complete tail number listing, detailed specifications, a comprehensive basing chart, and much more.
An enduring historical reference, written by a former SAC Warrior and Air Force veteran, and a welcome addition to every aviation lover's library - Now with more and larger photos, and a new Colors and Markings appendix. If you love great planes, you'll love this book!