In this issue Tony brings together two aircraft that were both designed specifically to break the 'sound barrier', the American Bell X-1 and British Miles M52. Under development at the same time, these designs experienced extremely contrasting fortunes. The X-1 became the first to fly supersonically, while the M52 was cancelled very controversially before it had flown. Incorporating his latest research, Tony's article examines the design and development process, the early stages of the X-1 flight programme and the background to the demise of Britain's contender.
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