Bristol 188

Common card · No. 318162

The Bristol Type 188 is a supersonic research aircraft designed and produced by the British aircraft manufacturer Bristol Aeroplane Company. It was nicknamed the Flaming Pencil in reference to its length and relatively slender cross-section as well as its intended purpose. The Type 188 was developed as part of supporting research efforts for the Avro 730, a later-cancelled bomber capable of Mach 3 flight. Its purpose was to explore high-speed, high-temperature flights; for the latter purpose, it made use of unconventional materials, such as large quantities of stainless steel, as well as the incorporation of an active refrigeration system. To work with this material, relatively exotic puddle welding fabrication techniques were employed along with extensive technical support from external companies. As part of its intended test programme, the Type 188 was designed with flexible engine installations that allowed for the fitting of different air intakes, engines, and propelling nozzles. It...

Read on Wikipedia · Image No machine-readable author provided. Neiltipton assumed (based on copyright claims)., Public domain