The North American Aviation XB-70 Valkyrie is a retired prototype version of the planned B-70 nuclear-armed, deep-penetration supersonic strategic bomber for the United States Air Force Strategic Air Command.

Conceived in the 1950s as an intercontinental strategic nuclear bomber, the futuristic Valkyrie instead became a unique test aircraft in the 1960s. Higher and Faster: B-70 Bomber Concept.

Feb 28, 2014 · The XB-70 Valkyrie, with a planned cruise speed of Mach 3 and operating altitude of 70,000 feet, was to be the ultimate high-altitude, high-speed manned strategic bomber. Events, however, would cause it to play a far different role in the history of aviation.

Valkyrie’s flight test program showcased its extraordinary capabilities while revealing the challenges of pushing aviation boundaries. On October 14, 1965, the first prototype reached Mach 3.02 ...

Jan 11, 2025 · The XB-70 Valkyrie, designed by North American Aviation, was their answer. The aircraft’s specifications were staggering: A maximum speed of Mach 3.1 (approximately 2,056 mph or 3,310 km/h). A cruising altitude of 70,000 feet, well above the reach of …

Sep 16, 2024 · Known for its sleek and futuristic design, the XB-70 remains a symbol of the experimental and ambitious spirit of Cold War-era aircraft development. Despite only two prototypes ever being...

1 day ago · February 4th, 1969: the XB-70 Valkyrie bomber takes its last flight. Watch this video to remember the occasion or to learn more about this iconic supersonic bomber that still looks futuristic today.

Mar 2, 2025 · The XB-70 is one of the world's most exotic aircraft that was conceived for the Strategic Air Command in the 1950s as a high-altitude bomber that could fly three times the speed of sound.

Feb 8, 2016 · The joint program among North American Rockwell, the Air Force, and NASA featured the world's largest experimental aircraft with a delta wing and hinged wing tips that could be folded down to a 65° angle to improve stability.

Jul 31, 2024 · Summary and Key Points: The North American XB-70 Valkyrie, conceived in the late 1950s, was an ambitious project to create the world’s fastest and highest-flying bomber. With its futuristic...