In May of 1944 the USAAF cancelled its B-35 bomber program, foreseeing the inadequacy of this aircraft in the future.  At the same time, however, the USAAF authorized the completion of two of these to be modified with jet engines.  The first YB-49 took flight on October 21, 1947 powered by eight Allison J35 turbojets, which ended up being unreliable.  The many problems notwithstanding, the YB-49 did show promise with the exception of its ability to fly great distances given the high fuel consumption of the early jet engines.  One of its inherent advantages was something that was not considered very important at the time: the fact that the shape of the YB-49 often disappeared from radar screens given its small image signature.  It is not coincidental that the modern B-2 Stealth Bomber has essentially the same shape as the much earlier YB-49.  The YB-49 design program was eventually cancelled due to its relatively thick airfoil section, which limited its cruising speed, a factor thought to be an important quality of a modern jet bomber.  This YB-49 Flying Wing scaled model includes the following features: 1) Authentic markings for a single USAF test aircraft - 1st prototype (YB-35 conversion to jet configuration) s/n 42-102367; 2) Clear cockpit canopy; 3) Detailed cockpit; 4) Detailed dorsal gunner's station; 5) Detailed undercarriage with flattened tires; 6) Recessed panel lines; 7) Separately molded "flaperons" and 8) Illustrated assembly instructions.  Note: this detailed scale model was produced using ex-AMT/ERTL molds and is available at a far lower price then those earlier kits.  The box is in new condition.  Never opened and factory sealed.