Even before the spectacular success of its X-1 rocket-powered aircraft
in breaking the sound barrier, the adventurous Bell Aircraft Corporation
was already pushing ahead with a parallel project to build a second
aircraft capable of far higher speeds. The X-2 (or Model 52) explored
the equally uncertain technology of swept-back wings. Now common in
modern conventional fighter aircraft, the Bell X-2 was revolutionary in
using this type of airframe to probe Mach 3 and research the effects of
extreme aerodynamic friction heat on airframes.
Although both X-2s were destroyed in crashes after only 20 flights,
killing two test pilots, the knowledge gained from the program was
invaluable in developing aircraft that could safely fly at such speeds.
Using stunning artwork and historical photographs, this is the story of
the plane that ultimately made the Lockheed Blackbird and Concorde
possible.