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.

P: 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.

P: The Army demonstrated a cheap ($30), light (4 1/2 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."

This file is automatically generated by a robot program, so reader's discretion is required.