Bell X-5
Bell Aircraft Corporation · United States · first flew 1951 · fighter
The Bell X-5 was the world's first aircraft capable of changing its wing sweep angle in flight, allowing researchers to study the aerodynamic effects of variable geometry across a range of speeds. It was inspired by the captured German Messerschmitt P.1101 project.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, swept |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 1 × turbojet, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 10.1 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- First aircraft with in-flight variable-sweep wings
- Based on Messerschmitt P.1101 concept
- USAF/NACA research aircraft of the early 1950s
Identified by its variable-geometry wings that could pivot from straight to fully swept, a single jet intake under the nose, and a sleek pointed fuselage characteristic of early-1950s research jets.
Specifications
- The Bell X-5 has a length of 10.1 m (33 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 10.21 m (33 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 1135 km/h (705 mph).
- Typical crew: 1.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
First flown in June 1951, the X-5 was built to explore variable-sweep wing technology and gathered crucial data that influenced later aircraft such as the F-111 and F-14. Two aircraft were built; one was lost in a fatal crash in 1953.
Variants
Two aircraft (tail numbers 50-1838 and 50-1839) were built; no distinct sub-variants.
Where you'll see it
Operated exclusively by the USAF and NACA as research aircraft; never entered combat or operational service.
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- Bell HSL
- Bell XH-15
- Bell X-2
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- de Havilland Sea Vixen
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