Boeing B-56

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The Boeing B-56 was an improved version of the B-47 Stratojet, and was originally designated YB-47C.

Fitted with four Allison J35 engines replacing the B-47's six General Electric J47 turbojets, the YB-47C was projected for first flight in April 1951.

A combination of delays and the less-than-expected performance of the J35 lead to the consideration of other engines. The Allison J71 was proposed, however problems with this engine meant that this was not feasible for the by-then redesignated B-56A. The Pratt & Whitney J57 was also considered, but was still in development, and the B-52 Stratofortress had priority for this engine.

The B-56 was cancelled in December 1952 before conversion of the prototype, a B-47B, was started.