Boeing B-17F

B-17F, Model 299P

-Essentially the F model was simply an upgraded E model, though this plane was now made in three factories.

-Boeing in Seattle, Lockheed-Vega in Burbank California and Douglas in Long Beach California produced 3405 B-17F from May 1942 to September 1943. This was the Douglas which competed against the Model 299 in 1935

-Performance was improved due to increases in engine horsepower 1200 HP, plus range was greatly improved with the installation of the “Tokyo Tanks”. 1730 gallons to 2810 gallons.

-Bomb load was again increased to a maximum of 6000 pounds, though speed was now slightly under 300 mph. at 25,000 feet

NOTE. The Lancaster max speed was 282 mph at 14,000 feet though it could carry 14, to 22,000 bombs.

-XB-40 experiment, fitted and extra turret in the radio room and a remote operated chin turret fro frontal defense, no bombs. This was dismal failure due to slow speed.

-One of the most famous B-17 was The Memphis Belle Serial number 41-24485 whose crew completed 25 missions over Europe and were sent home on war bond drive.

-The B-17 F model is viewed by many as the most attractive Flying Fortress in service…it just exuded sex appeal.