'' B-17G Flying Fortress ''
The B-17 Flying Fortress is the best-known American bomber of World War II. Heavy losses in 1943, when a total of 120 bombers was shot down, lead to the conclusion that previous B-17 versions carried insufficient defensive armament. As a consequence, the front lower nose of the B-17G was equipped with a turret carrying two 12,7 mm machine guns, providing an effective defense against the feared frontal attacks. Simultaneously, supplementary gun positions were added to the fuselage sides. The crew now being able to defend itself in all directions resulted in a sense of safety, which was also reflected in its nickname "Flying Fortress". Although it was mainly used over Europe and the Near East, it also delivered invaluable services in the Pacific theatre while flying sea patrol, reconnaissance and bombing missions. A total of 12.731 "Flying Fortress" was built of which 8.680 machines were G versions. The last B-17G left the factory on July 29, 1945.
Twee uitvoeringen mogelijk;
- USAAF, 8th Air Force, 91st Bomb Group, 401st Bomb Squadron "BLOOD 'N GUTS", Spring 1945.
- USAAF, 8th Air Force, 401st Bomb Group, 615th Bomb Squadron, Jan.1945.
Aantal onderdelen; 97.
Afmeting;
- Lengte 321 mm
- Spanwijdte 437 mm.
