March 15th 1960 – Introduction: Convair B-58 Hustler

Designed by Robert Widmer for Convair, the B-58 was the first supersonic jet bomber to achieve Mach 2.  Intended for flight at high altitudes and capable of carrying a nuclear weapon, it was employed by the US Air Force from March 15, 1960 through the end of January 1970 – primarily to combat Soviet fighter jets.  It is remembered for its delta-shaped wing and the loud sonic boom heard while passing overhead.