Martin B-57 Canberra

The Martin B‑57 Canberra is an American-built, twin‑engine, jet‑powered tactical bomber and reconnaissance aircraft derived from the British English Electric Canberra. In 1950 the United States Air Force selected the Canberra for licensed production, and the Glenn L. Martin Company began assembling the aircraft at its Omaha, Nebraska plant. The first Martin‑built B‑57 flew on 25 November 1953 and entered service in 1955, eventually equipping more than 155 units across a variety of roles, including night‑strike, electronic warfare, and high‑altitude photo‑reconnaissance. Powered by two Allison J65‑19 turbojets, the B‑57 could reach speeds of 610 mph, a service ceiling of 45 000 ft, and a combat radius of roughly 1 200 km with a typical bomb load of up to 5 000 lb. Its all‑metal airframe, high‑mounted straight wings, and tricycle landing gear provided excellent stability and short‑runway capability, traits that proved valuable during the Korean and early Vietnam conflicts. The aircraft’s adaptability led to specialized variants such as the RB‑57D high‑altitude research platform, which contributed to atmospheric testing and early space‑flight programs. The B‑57’s successful transition from a British design to a versatile American workhorse underscored the importance of international collaboration and cemented its legacy as a pivotal step in the evolution of jet‑age tactical bombers.

Glenn L. Martin Company

Martin B-57 Canberra

Classification

Production & History

Design & Classification