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The sign accompanying the B-47B. It reads

B-47B Stratojet

Nuclear bomber was backbone of U.S. Cold War defense

With its jet propulsion, swept wings, in-flight refueling, and ejection seats, the B-47 represented a quantum leap over WWII bombers of less than 5 years before. In its early years, the B-47 set speed records and could outrun enemy fighters.

By 1957, well over a thousand B-47s stood ready to deliver their nuclear bombs to the Soviet Union. Such awesome strategic power was certainly a key deterrent to attacks on the U.S. Other B-47 models flew reconnaissance and weather missions.

The B-47 was America's last mass-produced bomber. Though retired since the early 1970s, B-47s live on in the design foundation they provided for today's venerable B-52 bombers and KC-135 tankers.

B-47 Points of Interest

• Based on captured German wing designs, the B-47 was the world's first swept-wing bomber.
• The tail gun was remotely controlled by the co-pilot.
• Wings flex upward as much as 17 feet at the wingtip during flight.
• The bomb bay is located between the landing gear.

This Particular B-47B

• Has white belly paint to help deflect the blast from its nuclear bomb.
• Was stationed here at Bunker Hill AFB until a hard landing "broke its back" and forced its retirement.

Specifications
Manufacturer:	Boeing
Crew:	3
Engines:	(6) GE J47 turbojet engines with 5,8000 lbs thrust each
Armament:	(2) .50 cal machine guns in tail; 18,000 lbs of nuclear or conventional bombs
Wing Span:	116'
Length:	107' 1"	Height:	28'
Weight:	184,900 lbs loaded
Top Speed:	630 mph
Ceiling:	45,000 ft.
Range:	3,870 mi.
Number Built:	2,042

This aircraft is on loan from the National Museum of the United States Air Force
B-47B Stratojet #51-2315