About
The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress, a formidable WWII bomber, played a pivotal role in the European Theater, earning a reputation for toughness and strategic impact. Despite early setbacks, it became a symbol of American air power, dropping a significant portion of bombs during the war. From raids in the Pacific to crucial missions over Europe, the B-17 showcased its speed, high altitude, and defensive strength. Evolving through design advancements, it served various roles, including transport, antisubmarine aircraft, drone controller, and search-and-rescue plane. The B-17's legacy endures with a few remaining airworthy examples and numerous preserved aircraft in storage or on display, including historic models like The Swoose, a combat-flown B-17D from the early days of World War II.
Specifications
Dimensions: Wing span: 103 ft. 9 in (31.6 m) Length: 74 ft. 9 in (22.8 m) Height: 19 ft. 1 in (5.8 m) Wing Area: 1,420 sq ft (132 sq m) Weights: Empty: 32,720 lb (14,855 kg) Normal Loaded: 49,500 lb (22,475 kg) Maximum Overloaded: 60,000 lb (27,240 kg) Performance: Maximum Speed: 295 m.p.h. (472 km/h) at 25,000 ft (7,625 m) Service Ceiling: 35,000 ft (10,670 m) Normal Range: (normal fuel & max bombs), 1,100 miles (1,760 km) @ 220 mph (352 km/h) @ 25,000 ft (7,625 m) Powerplant: Four 1,200 hp Wright R-1820-97 nine cylinder air-cooled single row radial engines. General Electric Type B-22 exhaust driven turbo-superchargers, installed under engine nacelles. Armament: Thirteen 50-cal. machine-guns. Normal bomb load 6,000 lbs (2,724 kg). Largest bomb type carried is 2,000 lb (908 kg).
