The Bell X-16, also known as Bell Model 67, is a cancelled high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft developed in the 1950s for the USAF under project MX-2147.
Development[]
The X-16 began development in the second half of 1953, where it competed against Fairchild and Martin for new studies regarding a high altitude reconnaissance aircraft.
28 examples of the X-16 were ordered built, but this was cancelled shortly after the Lockheed U-2 was debuted successfully. The first X-16 was reported to be at around 80% completion when the project was cancelled.
Despite cancellation, the design ultimately made advances in lightweight wing structure design.
Aircraft of America 1946 to Present
Jet Aircraft
Fighters
Interceptors
CL-288 • CL-1200 (1 • 2) • CL-1600 • F-4 (A • B • C • D • E • J • N • S • X) • F-104 (A • J) • X-27
Interdictors
F-111
Multi-Role
F-104 (C • G • H)
Attackers
Ground Attack
A-37
Utility
Maritime Surveillance
U-2 (EPX)
Meteorological
WU-2
Missile Warning
U-2 (B)
Reconnaissance
X-16 • U-2 (A • C • D • E • F • G • H • R)
Trainer
U-2 (CT • RT • S)
Propeller Aircraft
Attackers
ASW
SC-130
Gunship
AC-47 • AC-119 (G • K) • AC-130 (A • E • H • J • U • W)