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Overview[]

The Bell X-16, also known as Bell Model 67, is a cancelled high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft developed in the 1950s for the USAF under project MX-2147.

Development[]

The X-16 began development in the second half of 1953, where it competed against Fairchild and Martin for new studies regarding a high altitude reconnaissance aircraft.

28 examples of the X-16 were ordered built, but this was cancelled shortly after the Lockheed U-2 was debuted successfully. The first X-16 was reported to be at around 80% completion when the project was cancelled.

Despite cancellation, the design ultimately made advances in lightweight wing structure design.

Aircraft of America
1946 to Present
Jet Aircraft
Fighters Interceptors CL-288CL-1200 (12)CL-1600F-4 (ABCDEJNSX)F-104 (AJ)X-27
Interdictors F-111
Multi-Role F-104 (CGH)
Attackers Ground Attack A-37
Utility Maritime Surveillance U-2 (EPX)
Meteorological WU-2
Missile Warning U-2 (B)
Reconnaissance X-16U-2 (ACDEFGHR)
Trainer U-2 (CTRTS)
Propeller Aircraft
Attackers ASW SC-130
Gunship AC-47AC-119 (GK)AC-130 (AEHJUW)
Utility Aerial Refueling KC-130 (FJRT)
Airlift C-130
Meteorological WC-130 (ABEHJ)
Rotorcraft
Combat Attackers AH-56S-67
Unpowered Aircraft
Utility ? [[]]
Sources
Books Online Documents
• American X-Vehicles - X-1 to X-50
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