Silhouetted against the sun, the Northrop XP-79 looked like a blade ready to slice through the sky. It was designed just for that, to ram enemy bombers and tear them apart in brutal melee combat. Unlike any other plane of its time, its starship design was breathtaking for the 1940s.
The XP-79 broke the mold in more than just looks. Its bold, otherworldly design and unique configuration, where the pilot lay prone in the cockpit, made for a revolutionary flying experience.
The XP-79 was built without a traditional propeller. Instead, it relied on the XCALR-2000A-1 rotojet engines developed by Aerojet, a pioneer in jet technology.
Adding to its innovation, the XP-79 was one of the first aircraft constructed using a magnesium alloy. This lightweight material was crucial for achieving the high speeds and agility the aircraft demanded.
However, this innovation came with a dangerous risk. Magnesium posed significant challenges, including difficulties in welding and increased flammability. Tensions were sky-high when the futuristic-looking aircraft rolled onto the tarmac for its first flight. Witnesses had no idea that what was expected to be a massive leap in aviation history was about to end in devastating tragedy.