Redesignated XF-86 in 1948.
One of three built. The others were,45-59598 and 45-59599
Information from Joe Baugher's web site
First flight, October 1, 1947. Delivered to the U.S. Air Force, December 1948. Assigned to 3077th EG, 1951. Assigned to 2759th ABW, 1951. Assigned to 4901st SW, 1952. There is a possibility that 45-59597 flown by George Welch may have been the first aircraft to exceed the speed of sound. Before Chuck Yeager exceeded the speed of sound on October 14, 1947, the XP-86 may well have exceeded the speed of sound in a couple of high speed dives. Plane later used in nuclear tests at Frenchman's Flat, Nevada May 8, 1952 and May 25, 1952. Plane sold for scrap from Nevada nuclear test site Jan 1965.
3750 lbs Chevrolet-built Allison-GE J35-C-3
Aeroplane Photo Supply No. 5355
