DAYTON, Ohio -- Douglas RB-66B Destroyer in the Southeast Asia War Gallery at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. (U.S. Air Force photo)
The B-66 was developed from the U.S. Navy A3D Skywarrior as a tactical light bomber and photo reconnaissance aircraft. The RB-66B photo reconnaissance version became the first production series and totaled 145 of the 294 B-66s built. The USAF also developed a weather reconnaissance version, and various electronic countermeasures (ECM) versions.
ECM B-66s became very important elements in strikes against North Vietnam. They could detect enemy radar emissions and jam their signals, thereby confusing enemy defenses. In addition, some B-66s flew pathfinder missions, guiding F-105 and F-4 bombing strikes through bad weather.
The aircraft on display flew combat missions in Southeast Asia and was delivered to the museum in 1970.
TECHNICAL NOTES: Armament: Two 20mm cannons in tail and 8,044 lbs. of photo flash bombs Engines: Two Allison J71s of 10,200 lbs. thrust each Maximum speed: 585 mph Cruising speed: 525 mph Range: 1,800 miles Ceiling: 43,000 ft. Span: 72 ft. 6 in. Length: 75 ft. 2 in. Height: 23 ft. 7 in. Weight: 91,000 lbs. maximum Serial number: 53-0475
