The Martin XB51 was a colossal bomber aircraft built in the late 1940s that exceeded all expectations and was probably the finest bomber that never went to battle.

Not to be confused with the B52, one of the most famous aircraft of all time, the B51's lifespan was too brief to be awarded an official nickname. Still, its unusually prolonged shape granted it the moniker of "The Flying Cigar."

Faster than almost any fighter of its time, military experts believe the Martin XB51 could have made a substantial difference in the Southeast Asian wars, but it was never produced.

Defense analyst Robert Dorr wrote in the Defence Media Network: (QUOTE): “The XB51 incorporated a rotary weapons bay that enabled it to deliver bombs while flying at high speed. Capable of 645 mph at sea level in level flight, the XB51 would have been able to run away from most fighters of its era.”

Despite successful trial runs and a promising future, the B51 project was ultimately canceled for mysterious political reasons...



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