RB-57D Canberra | |
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Martin RB-57D-2 Model 796 53-3979 collecting atmospheric particle samples during Juniper nuclear bomb explosion; Operation Hardtack I Bikini atomic experiments, 22 July 1958. | |
Role | Reconnaissance |
Manufacturer | Martin |
First flight | 3 November 1955 |
Introduction | April 1956 |
Retired | 1979 (EB-57D) |
Status | Retired |
Primary users | United States Air Force Republic of China Air Force |
Number built | 20 |
Developed from | Martin B-57 Canberra |
Developed into | Martin/General Dynamics RB-57F Canberra |
The Martin RB-57D Canberra is a specialized high-altitude strategic reconnaissance aircraft developed from the Martin B-57 Canberra tactical bomber, a license-built version of the English Electric Canberra. It was used by the United States Air Force during the 1950s prior to operational use of the Lockheed U-2.