B-17 Flying Fortress
The B-17 Flying Fortress is an iconic American heavy bomber aircraft that played a significant role during World War II. Here are some detailed aspects of this aircraft:
Development and Design
- Origin: The B-17 was developed in response to the United States Army Air Corps's request for a multi-engine bomber that could fly at high altitudes, defend itself, and carry a substantial bomb load.
- First Flight: The prototype, known as the Model 299, first flew on July 28, 1935.
- Design Features:
- Four-engine design for reliability and power.
- Heavy armament with multiple gun turrets for defensive purposes, giving it the nickname "Flying Fortress."
- Capable of flying at high altitudes to avoid enemy fighters.
- Large bomb bay for up to 8,000 pounds of bombs.
Operational History
Technical Specifications
- Engine: Four Wright R-1820-97 "Cyclone" turbo-supercharged radial engines.
- Crew: 10 (Pilot, co-pilot, navigator, bombardier, flight engineer, radio operator, and four gunners).
- Dimensions:
- Wingspan: 103 feet 9 inches.
- Length: 74 feet 9 inches.
- Height: 19 feet 1 inch.
- Performance:
- Maximum Speed: 287 mph at 25,000 feet.
- Service Ceiling: 35,600 feet.
- Range: Over 2,000 miles with a full bomb load.
Legacy
- Impact: The B-17's contribution to the war effort was immense, helping to weaken the industrial capacity of Nazi Germany.
- Survivors: Several B-17s are preserved in museums, and a few still fly at air shows, serving as living memorials to the airmen who flew them.
- Pop Culture: The B-17 has been featured in numerous films, books, and video games, immortalizing its legacy in popular culture.
External Links
See Also