experimental aircraft model by Bell
X-5
The Bell X-5 was the first aircraft capable of changing the sweep of its wings in flight. It was inspired by the untested wartime P.1101 design of the German Messerschmitt company. In a further development of the German design, which could only have its wing sweepback angle adjusted on the ground, the Bell engineers devised a system of electric motors to adjust the sweep in flight.
Summary from Wikipedia, photo via Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA.
- Manufacturer
- Bell Aircraft Corporation
- First flight
- 1951-06-20
- Length
- 10.1 m
Specifications
- Cruise speed
- 613 kt
- Max speed
- 613 kt
- Range
- 650 nm
- Service ceiling
- 42,000 ft
- Max takeoff weight
- 9,875 lb
- Empty weight
- 6,350 lb
- Powerplant
- Allison J35-A-17A
- Engines
- 1
- Seats
- 1
- Length
- 33 ft
- Wingspan
- 33 ft
- Height
- 12 ft
- Number built
- 2
Specifications are approximate and may vary by variant. Compiled from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA).
Reference and training only. Specifications vary by variant — consult the manufacturer and the official documents.