B-47 Stratojet's Swept-Wing Design Revolutionizes Aviation

The Boeing B-47 Stratojet was a pioneering jet aircraft that influenced the design of many subsequent commercial and military planes.

First flying on December 17, 1947, it was designed by George Schairer, who studied captured German research on swept wings and applied the concept to the new bomber.

The result was a radical-looking aircraft with a 35-degree swept wing carrying six jet engines in neat pods. This design allowed for faster cruising speeds of nearly 600 mph while carrying nuclear loads across intercontinental distances.

Despite its innovative design, the B-47 had several quirks, including 'bicycle' landing gear and rocket-assisted takeoff.