The Martin B-57 Canberra was an American military jet bomber derived from the British English Electric Canberra. It was built to replace ageing piston-engined attack aircraft and subsequently developed into reconnaissance, electronic countermeasures and high-altitude research configurations.[1][2][3]
American production
The Korean War created an urgent requirement to replace the Douglas B-26 Invader with a jet-powered aircraft. In March 1951 the Air Force contracted with Martin to manufacture the Canberra under licence. The first Martin-built aircraft flew in July 1953, and the Air Force acquired 403 aircraft of the family.[1]
The B-57B introduced a tandem cockpit arrangement and a rotating bomb door, with weapons attached to its inner surface. Fixed guns also distinguished the attack version from the initial American Canberra configuration. These changes adapted the basic British design to American tactical requirements.[2]
Southeast Asian service
B-57Bs flew close air support and night-interdiction missions during the Southeast Asian war. The 8th and 13th Bomb Squadrons operated the type until its withdrawal in 1969. Two Wright J65 turbojets powered the B model, which could carry both internal and external stores.[1]
The museum's aircraft illustrates the family's changing uses. After service as a test aircraft, it returned to combat configuration and flew from Phan Rang. On returning to the United States it became an EB-57B electronic countermeasures aircraft, before eventual restoration to its bomber appearance.[1]
High-altitude research
The specialised WB-57 extended the Canberra family's work into science and technology testing. NASA operates the high-altitude research programme from Ellington Field near Houston. Its missions have included atmospheric and Earth science, mapping, cosmic-dust collection and support for rocket launches. Instrument-carrying WB-57s also provide test platforms for technologies intended for future aircraft or spacecraft, a different purpose from the tactical bomber that began the American programme.[3]