Northrop YRB - 49A
| The Northrop Corp. proposed a modification to the YB-49 Flying
Wing bomber, called the YRB-49A. One YB-35A was modified with six jet engines and became the YRB-49A. Although its small radar signature had been noticed during tests during the late 1940s, it was the YB-49's high altitude and long-range flying abilities that gave it consideration as a spy plane. The plane promised a 400-mph cruise speed at 35,000 feet. The YRB-49A carried two of its six jet engines in pods below the wing, making room for more fuel. The aircraft was designed for the photo reconnaissance role and had camera equipment installed in the center and aft fuselage. The YRB-49A made its first flight on May 4, 1950. A brief test program of only thirteen flights was conducted before the aircraft was put into storage in late 1950. The YRB-49A sat until it was scrapped in late 1953. |
The Northrop YRB-49A during take-off.
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