The B-47 was the world's first operational swept-wing, multi-jet engine bomber. Beginning with the maiden flight of the XB-47 in 1947, and concluding with the final flight of any B-47 in 1986, Mark Natola's book details the development and operational history of a remarkable aircraft. During the early days of the Cold War, the B-47 was America's "big stick" with more than 1500 operational aircraft available to attack targets within the Soviet Union. 221 pages. Hardcover.