A Strange Detail on the Raider and a Phast Phantom
New details on the B-21 Raider emerge, and a Phantom that flew very fast - in a circle.
"Airpower is like Oxygen. When you have enough, you don't have to think about it. When you don't have enough, that's all you can think about."
- General Frank Gorenc
On the Radar
After several updated photos of the B-21 Raider were released two weeks ago, it now looks like the 6th generation bomber is getting ready to enter its next phase of testing.
If you recall, the Raider was revealed to the world in December of last year, and these latest photos are the next official update we’ve received since then. There has been much speculation around this bomber, from what the capabilities will be to whether the aircraft will be exported to allies.
Close inspection of the most recent photos shows some interesting details: cosmetically the Edwards Air Force Base ED markings have been added, along with “No Step” markings, ejection seat and “danger” stencils. Structurally, it looks like the control surfaces are distributed into three sets along the wing’s trailing edge. I am working on an updated 3D concept model based on these new photos, and the accompanying video to go along with it. Be sure to check the channel!
This week in aviation history
25 September 1960: Flying in a Navy F4H-1 Phantom, then Commander Franklin “Jeff” Davis set a world speed record for: Speed Over a Closed Circuit of 100 Kilometers Without Payload. The jet flew the course averaging a speed of 1390.24 miles per hour or 2,237.37 kmh. The 62-mile circular course was flown at an altitude of 45,000 feet.
The F-4 Phantom was an incredibly advanced - and rugged airframe, especially in 1960. The record setting aircraft was flown by Davis at a constant 70 degree bank angle, while pulling 3 g’s. While flying the circular course, the steep bank exposed the right stabilator directly to the engine exhaust. The concern was that the stabilator would melt or deform, but the honeycomb structure of the control surface held together. The record setting flight demonstrated the Phantom’s durability and the sophistication of its navigation systems.
As for the pilot, John Franklin Davis would go on to reach the rank of Captain, and would command the USS Kitty Hawk (CVA-63) during combat operations in SouthEast Asia
In case you missed it
Since we’re on a Navy kick in this issue, here is another interesting aircraft that flew around the same time as the Phantom’s early days. Watch it because there is some interesting footage of the A-5 being tested, as well as on crowded flight decks with so many different airframes aboard. Another era:
Photo Outlet
Super Hornets. Blue Angles. Precision. The men and women who pilot the Blue Angles are some of the best aviators in the world. I’ve seen their “routine” most of my life going back to their A-4 Skyhawk days - and it never gets old. What they do would be challenging in a simulator, but in the real world where atmospheric conditions vary by the day, and even by the hour, their performance is truly - breathtaking.
Parting Shots
The F-4 Phantom is an incredible airplane, and somehow still flying today. I have wanted to make a video on the F-4 since I started my channel, but I want to do it right. I am working on an opportunity that I hope will allow me to bring you the best F-4 video I can make - stay tuned.
That’s all for this week, thanks for reading! If you know a fellow aviation enthusiast that would enjoy these weekly newsletters, then please forward this along. Now you know!
-Tog