Bell X-2

Packed with photos and spectacular new artwork, this book traces the supersonic career and lasting influence of the record-breaking Bell X-2 rocket plane. A must-have for aviation enthusiasts, especially those interested in the thrilling, hi-tech world of the early Jet Age. 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