Most of the RB-57s were retired in 1983, though a small handful were assigned to NASA for special, high-altitude research.
Many US Air Force aircraft are modified throughout their lifespan to meet changing mission needs. When Cold War reconnaissance became an important part of the national defense strategy, the US Air Force converted the B-57 bomber into the RB-57, a dual-purpose twinjet tactical bomber and photo reconnaissance platform. Aircraft manufacturer Martin only developed 67 of these aircraft due to the expected delivery of the more capable Douglas RB-66B. Some of the 67 aircraft converted to electronic reconnaissance aircraft, the RB-57F, and were assigned to Air National Guard units.
Manufactured in 1955, the RB-57A on display served various assignments, including the 7499th Support Group for Operation “Heart Throb” during the Cold War. During this mission, a two-man crew used cameras in the RB-57A to look into Warsaw Pact territory without flying over it. In 1960, the aircraft retired and Museum volunteers restored it to reflect its role in the “Heart Throb” mission.
Hill Air Force Base has several connections to the B-57. In 1953, Hill gained responsibility for engine repairs on the J65 turbojet used on the B-57, while also supplying spare parts and performing specialized maintenance for this airframe. Lastly, the 461st Bombardment Wing at Hill operated B-57s between 1953 and 1956.
This aircraft is on loan from the U.S. Air Force Heritage Program.
Serial Number: 52-1492
Manufacturer: Glenn L. Martin Company
Primary Function: Reconnaissance Bomber
Crew: Two (pilot and navigator/camera operator)
Engines: Two Wright J-65-W-5 turbojets; Thrust: 7,200 lbs per engine
Wingspan: 64 ft (without tip tanks)
Length: 65 ft 6 in
Height: 15 ft 6 in
Weight: 49,950 lbs
Speed: 495 mph (cruising); 610 mph at 45,000 feet (maximum)
Range: 2,100 miles
Service Ceiling: 50,000 ft
Armament: None
Cost: $1,071,000
Years of Service: 1963 – 1974
The B-57 was used by the 461 Bombardment Group at Hill Air Force Base for training, transport and liaison efforts. After 1954, Hill Air Force Base gained responsibility for specialized supply of the B-57. Manufactured in 1955, the RB-57A on display served various assignments, including the 7499th Support Group for Operation “Heart Throb” during the Cold War. In the course of this mission, a two-man crew used cameras to look into Warsaw Pact territory without flying over it. In 1960, the aircraft retired and was restored to reflect its role in the Heart Throb mission.
The RB-57A was designed as a twinjet tactical bomber, as well as a photo reconnaissance platform used during Vietnam and the Cold War. Only 67 of these aircraft were made due to the expected delivery of the more capable Douglas RB-66B. Some of the 67 aircraft were converted to electronic reconnaissance aircraft. The RB-57F and others were assigned to Air National Guard units.
Most of the RB-57s were retired in 1983, though a small handful were assigned to NASA for special, high-altitude research.
The Canberra was used to bomb targets in North and South Vietnam. It was the first jet bomber in U.S. service to drop ordinance in combat.
The RB variant was designed as a high-altitude reconnaissance and electronic warfare aircraft, though it would eventually spend most of its life photographing the continental U.S.
The Canberra had a combat range of just 950 miles, while its ferry range was a more impressive 2,720 miles.