Armed Forces: Change & Range

Both the Army and Air Force produced prototype versions of new weapons last week—just in time to make an impression on congressional budgeteers who will soon be drawing a bead on armed forces expenses.

¶ The Air Force rolled out its first B-52H bomber, designed to serve as a launching platform for four long-range (1,000 miles), air-launched Skybolt missiles. The airplane itself is powered by eight new Pratt & Whitney J57 turbofan engines, has a range of 10,000 miles, will be able to launch its atom-tipped Skybolts without having to make deep, dangerous penetrations into hostile airspace. The 6-52-Skybolt weapons system will have one advantage over ground-launched rockets: it can be recalled at any time before it reaches the release point for its birds.

¶ The Army demonstrated a cheap ($30), light (4½ Ibs.) tank killer: a one-man bazooka with an expendable plastic firing tube. Each firing tube may be used several times, and a G.I. can carry at least five of its rocket charges. Every bit as powerful as the two-man, 20-lb., $175 bazooka it is meant to replace, the “XM-72 Rocket Grenade” is a companion piece for the foot soldier’s 90-mm. recoilless rifle. Between the two, says the Army, ground outfits will have the antitank weapons they need. “We hope to issue them like hand grenades.”