The delta-wing B-58 Hustler was the first USAF supersonic bomber put into production and the first bomber to reach Mach 2. The B-58 made its initial flight on Nov. 11. 1956 and flew supersonically on Dec. 30. 1956. Distinctive B-58 features included its sophisticated inertial guidance navigation and bombing system, slender Coke bottle fuselage, and extensive use of heat-resistant honey-comb sandwich skin panels in the wings and fuselage for lower weight and greater strength. The thin fuselage prevented internal carriage of bombs so an external drapable two-component pod beneath the fuselage contained extra fuel and a nuclear weapon, reconnaissance equipment, or other specialized gear. Crew members cousited of a pilot, navigator-bombardier, and defense systems operator. A total of 116 B-58s were constructed between 1956 and 1962, and the last was withdrawn from service on Jan. 31. 1970. Being the first bomber capable of exceeding Mach 2. the B-58s set 19 world speed and altitude records and won five different aviation trophies-more than any other combat airplane. Model kit features: Detailed cockpit and landing gear, Engraved panel lines, and Authentic markings. Paint colors needed: White, Black, Silver, Flat Black, Metallic Gray, Gull Gray, Yellow Green, and Aircraft Gray.
