The JB-1 "Power Bomb"

Usage
 

Experimental Prototype

Wing Construction
 

Magnesium and Aluminum

Capacity
 

Unmanne d

Motor type
 

Two General Electric B1 turbojets
 

Power
 

2 x 400 lbs thrust
 

Length
 

10 ft (3 m)
 

Span
 

17 ft 6 in (5.3 m)
 

Wing Area
 

?? ft2 (?? m2)
 

Aspect Ratio
 

??
 

Pilot position
 

N/A
 

Maximum Speed
 

400 mph
 
 The JB-1 Power Bomb was to be equipped with a preprogrammed guidance system, and, like the XP-79B, powered by two turbojets. It was designed to hit targets up to 200 miles away. Known as Project MX -543, a total of 13 JB-1s were ordered, but only two were built. The first JB-1 was a manned glider which was to test the flying characteristics of the design. Like most of the small Northrop designs, this featured magnesium and aluminum alloy construction, with two bomb containers, on each side of the pilot.

In 1944 Harry Crosby flew the first JB-1 through a successful test program. After the gliding phase was successful, the second JB-1 had two General Electric B1 turbojet engines, each with 400 pounds thrust added. This unmanned craft was launched from a rocket sled, with a takeoff speed of 160 mph.

jb-1_sm
The glider version of the JB-1

jb-1_jet_sm
The jet version of the Power Bomb on its takeoff sled.