Steve Ferguson (American, B. 1946) "B-47E Stratojet" Signed lower left. Original Acrylic painting on Illustration Board.

Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation.

This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover for the U.S. 32c Stratojet Classic Collection Series stamp issued July 19, 1997.

Powered by six engines, the world's first swept-wing jet bomber, the B-47 Stratojet, made its debut in 1947. The plane boasted a top speed of over 550 mph -- faster than most fighters of that time. Compared to the B-29 bomber, which required a 10-man crew, the Stratojet needed only a pilot, co-pilot and bombardier/navigator. On September 1, 1953, the USAF carried out the first in-flight refueling of one jet by another, using a tanker derived from a B-47 to refuel another B-47. By 1956, 2,032 Stratojets had been delivered to the USAF. Of these, 1,373 were manufactured by Boeing, the other 659 by Douglas and Lockheed. The venerable bombers served America faithfully for 20 years.

Image Size: 16.5 x 14 in.
Overall Size: 20 x 15 in.
Unframed.
(B14202)

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