Douglas XB-43 "Jet master"

Developed as a direct modification of the Douglas XB-42, the XB-43 "Jet master" holds the distinction as America's first jet bomber. The XB-43 took its maiden flight on May 17, 1946, reaching speeds over 500 mph. However, the development was plagued by the unreliability of early turbojets. The first prototype was heavily damaged in a landing accident, leaving the second prototype, dubbed "American Maid," to carry out the remainder of the testing program as an engine test bed. By the time the Jet master was flying, the military had already shifted its focus to the North American B-45 Tornado, which featured a four-engine design that proved more practical for the jet bomber role.

Crew - 3 (Pilot, Co-pilot/Bombardier, Navigator)
Engines - 2 × General Electric J35-GE-3 turbojets
Max Speed - 507 mph
Range - 1,100 miles
Service Ceiling - 38,500'
Armament - 8,000 lbs of bombs; planned 2 × .50-cal remote tail turrets