When you’re looking at a LEGO creation from someone who’s Flickr handle is “BigPlanes,” you’d expect to see something massive and aeronautical. And, sure enough, this LEGO Northrop XB-35 Flying Wing by Jack Carleson checks those boxes. If you’re looking for information about the technology behind the real XB-35, I’d suggest a trip to Wikipedia. But here at the Brothers Brick, we’re more taken by the excellent building techniques of this model. A masterful combination of SNOT building and Technic wizardry makes this not only a beautiful model but a functional one as well. This huge aircraft has motorized engines, a retractable undercarriage, and even a detailed interior including bomb bays.
Fitting all the electronics into the thin wing structure, while keeping those same wings from drooping, obviously took a lot of time and effort. And the end result looks great! The XB-35’s wing looks aerodynamic, while the clever placement of batteries and ballast keeps the whole vehicle well balanced. The background elements add just the right level of context without detracting from the main build, too.
The dual contra-rotating propellers shown here were part of the first versions of the real-world plan. I’m glad that Jack decided to build this version – I think they’re a lot more interesting to look at than the standard propellers they were eventually replaced with. Jack has shared a number of in-progress shots of this project in his Flickr Gallery. Among them is a short video of these engines in action. Totally worth the click.
The underside of the build isn’t quite as streamlined, but check out these amazing landing gear! That 1×2 cheese slope as a wheel chock really helps give you a sense of just how large this build is.
Inside, Jack has built out a very detailed cabin space. This photo showcases the co-pilot’s station. The red cot to the right is where the bombardier would lie to guide the bombs. Comfy and dangerous, all at once.
This is a really impressive build, and Jack is looking forward to showing it off once in-person LEGO conventions become a thing again. In the meantime, be sure to explore more of Jack’s other giant airplane builds in our archives!