Bell X-2

Bell Aircraft Corporation · United States · first flew 1955 · fighter

The Bell X-2 was an American swept-wing rocket-powered research aircraft designed to investigate flight characteristics in the Mach 2–3 speed range, using advanced heat-resistant materials to survive the kinetic heating encountered at such speeds. It reached Mach 3.196, killing its pilot when the aircraft went out of control.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	Mid-mounted, swept
E — Engines	1 × rocket, fuselage-mounted
F — Fuselage	11.5 m fuselage
T — Tail	Conventional

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Swept-wing rocket research aircraft exploring Mach 3 regime
Stainless steel and K-Monel construction for heat resistance
Launched from B-50 mothership; skid landing

Characterised by its gracefully swept wings with no leading-edge devices, a pointed nose, and heat-resistant metallic skin with a distinctive bronze or silver finish; skid landing gear rather than wheels.

Specifications

The Bell X-2 has a length of 11.5 m (38 ft).
It has a wingspan of 9.8 m (32 ft).
Its maximum speed is 3370 km/h (2094 mph).
Typical crew: 1.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

First flown in 1955 after years of development, the X-2 made 20 flights before it was lost in September 1956 when test pilot Mel Apt became the first person to exceed Mach 3; inertia coupling caused a loss of control and Apt was killed. The programme provided vital data on high-speed aerodynamics and heating.

Variants

Two aircraft were built; the second was lost in a fuel explosion on the ground in 1953, leaving only the first to complete the flight programme.

Where you'll see it

Operated solely as a USAF/NACA research aircraft at Edwards Air Force Base; never in operational service.

Related aircraft

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