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glyn · 07-13-2007, 09:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by pdf27

OK, source is "Encyclopedia of US Air Force Aircraft and missile systems, Volume II, Post-World War II Bombers 1945-1973". Author is Marcelle Size Knack and it is published by the "Office of Air Force History, Unites States Air Force, Washington, D.C., 1988". This quotes maximum speed for a variety of aircraft, and includes the various marks of B-52. That gives maximum speed as being in the range 546 to 553 Kts at altitudes from 19,800 to 23,800ft depending on mark. Some pretty simple number crunching gives a value of about M=0.95.

Thank you for identifying the source. However, I must tell you that they are wrong. The Office of Air Force History also greatly overestimates the speeds and capabilities of many US aircraft. As you know, speeds, whether maximun, cruising or stalling depend on many variables - and the only publications which can do this are the type Flight Manuals and the Appendix 1 Performance Data manuals (Operating Manuals in other countries). I have those for the B-52 in front of me now. A look at the fuel flow charts for the different altitudes and weights tells the story! Incidentally, the maximum speed clean at altitudes in excess of 36,000' and no external fuel tanks is Mach 0.93. Other than on acceptance flights I would doubt that speed has ever been achieved in service. Call me an old curmudgeon if you will, but I can only accept the evidence of the 'Dash Ones' and their appendixes. What a pity the Office of Air Force History does not take the same position.