One of representatives of high-performance variable-sweep combat aircraft: the multi-national Panavia Tornado, due to enter service in 1980.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Panavia Tornado IDS (GR) - InternationalInternational - 1974

One of representatives of high-performance variable-sweep combat aircraft: the USAF’s F-111, first variable-sweep aeroplane to enter production

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark - СШАUSA - 1964

Bell's X-5 caught against something closely resembling a lunar landscape that turns out to be an area just north of Edwards AFB. Based on the Messerschmitt P.1101 interceptor that had a three-position, variable sweep angled wing that required setting before each flight. Bell took the concept on a stage, providing an in-flight adjustable sweep range from 20 to 60 degrees, compared with the P.1101's 35 to 45 degree movement. Two X-5s were built for the US Air Force, 50.1838 and 50.1839, the type's first flight being made on 20 June 1951. The second machine was destroyed when it spun in on 14 October 1953, fatally injuring Major Raymond Popson. Above is a revealing ground view of the surviving X-5, 50.1838. The inherent flexibility of the underslung engine mounting was one emphasised by Bell as permitting real choice of engine fit when they came to push the US Air Force to consider buying a fighter development of the X-5. The US Air Force rejection of this proposal was based on the overall small size of the X-5. The X-5"s final flight was made on 25 October 1955, by no less a future luminary than Neil Armstrong.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Bell X-5 - СШАUSA - 1951

One of the earliest aeroplanes to demonstrate variable geometry in flight - the Grumman XF10F-1 Jaguar, first flown on 19 May 1952.

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Grumman F10F Jaguar - СШАUSA - 1952

One of the largest aircraft flown to date with variable sweep is the Rockwell B-1, four prototypes of which have to date accumulated 1,400 hrs

Самолёты на фотографии: Aircrafts on the photo: Rockwell B-1A Lancer - СШАUSA - 1974