Convair B-36 "Peacemaker"


One of the largest planes ever built, the early models of the B-36 were deemed too slow.  Four jet engines were added to planes coming off the assembly line in Fort Worth, Texas.  Some of the early models were flown to San Diego to have the jet engines added.  The above photo may bring back memories for long-time San Diegans.  I'm not sure why the tail rudders are missing on two of the planes.  I sure would like to see a photo taken on the inside of the factory.  This photo was probably taken in 1950, at the outset of the Korean War, and secrecy was of the essence. 



The above photo shows an early B-36 without the jet engines.   The photo below shows an aircraft landing at Lindbergh Field, perhaps for a "tune-up".  Crewmen referred to the planes with all eight engines as having "six turning and four burning."