About This File
FS2004 Martin XB-51 Panther, with updated flight dynamics. A 1944 USAAF requirement for a new close-support aircraft was the starting point for this unconventional jet bomber. Known originally as the XA-45, the trijet design won the 1946 competition and two prototypes were ordered. First flown in October 1949, the XB-51 was a great success, meeting all the criteria it was supposed to. The demands of the Korean War however, meant that the design was no longer suitable and the British Canberra was chosen instead. Model designed by Phil Perrott. Panel by Nick Karatzides. Flight model by Larry Vrooman. Sound by Mike Hambly. Smoke effects by Alejandro Villa. Package and general rework by Simone Prattico'.