B-29D (XB-44)
Underpowered for its weight, the Wright powered B-29 could handle substantial power upgrades if available. The B-29D program, redesignated the XB-44, was installed with the new four-row 28-cylinder Pratt & Whitney R-4360 Wasp Major air-cooled radial engine producing 3500hp. The aircraft was easily distinguishable from the B-29 with these new engines. In 1945, the first orders for the aircraft were placed. Shortly thereafter the aircraft was redesignated the B-50A in an attempt to win appropriations for a new aircraft. It was shown that the changes made created essentially a new aircraft which spawed the B-50 program.
