Difference between revisions of "B-17E"

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{{Specs-Card|code=b-17e}}
+
{{About
 +
| about = American bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 +
| usage = other versions
 +
| link = B-17 (Family)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=b-17e
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 +
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
−
''In the description, the first part needs to be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert screenshot of the vehicle. If the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle it is talking about.''
+
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 +
The B-17 Flying Fortress is one of the most iconic USAF bombers of WWII. The B-17E was the first version of the Flying Fortress produced in large numbers, with 512 delivered. Unlike previous versions, the B-17E had larger and extended fuselage by 3m, as well as a vertical tailfin, rudder, and horizontal stabilizer added. A new tail gunner position was made in the new fuselage, dorsal and remotely operated ventral turret made by Sperry were also added. All these modifications also increased the aircraft's weight by about 20%, so a more powerful version of Wright R-1820 Cyclone 9 engines were used.
 +
 
 +
In the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27, the B-17E is the first USAF heavy bomber that pilots will come across in the US tree. The legendary Flying Fortress features excellent defensive armament consisting of over 10 x 12.7 mm machine guns spread across multiple turrets, paired with decent bomb load of up to 8,000 lb of ordnance, which is enough to destroy two bombing points. However, the B-17's wings are very fragile, so caution is advised when turning so as not to overload them.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
−
=== Flight Performance ===
+
=== Flight performance ===
−
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Maximum speed, maneuverability, speed and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
+
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 +
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 7,680 m)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 +
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 +
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
 +
|-
 +
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
 +
|-
 +
! Stock
 +
| 496 || 483 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 36.9 || 37.9 || 5.8 || 5.7 || rowspan="2" | 600
 +
|-
 +
! Upgraded
 +
| 523 || 510 || 35.1 || 36.0 || 8.7 || 7.2
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
==== Details ====
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="5" | Features
 +
|-
 +
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
 +
|-
 +
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="7" | Limits
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
 +
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 +
|-
 +
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 +
|-
 +
| 516 <!-- {{Specs|destruction|body}} --> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 383 || 361 || 249 || ~3 || ~2
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
 +
|-
 +
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 +
|-
 +
| < 330 || < 310 || < 270 || > 300
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured. Describe the armour, if there is any, also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''
+
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 +
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
 +
 
 +
* 6.35 mm Steel plate behind nose gunner.
 +
* 6.35 mm Steel plates behind pilots.
 +
* 6.35 mm Steel plates behind dorsal gunners.
 +
* 6.35 mm Steel plates in front of beam gunners.
 +
* 6.35 mm Steel plates in front of tail gunner.
 +
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass in front of tail gunner.
 +
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass ball turret.
 +
 
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
 +
 
 +
As a slow and lumbering heavy bomber, the Flying Fortress relies entirely on its turrets for defence. Without it, the plane is a piñata. Thus, "Protective vests" should be the first unlock. Further survivability upgrades will make fending off attacks easier but do not think to stand successfully against enemy fighters. So upgrading the bomb load should be second priority. Performance modules can be considered least necessary, it will not go anywhere quick anyway.
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
−
=== Offensive armament ===
+
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
−
''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.''
+
=== Suspended armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 +
{{main|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)}}
 +
 
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
  
−
=== Suspended armament ===
+
* 8 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (4,000 lb total)
−
''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.''
+
* 12 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (6,000 lb total)
 +
* 6 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (6,000 lb total)
 +
* 2 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs (4,000 lb total)
  
 
=== Defensive armament ===
 
=== Defensive armament ===
−
''Defensive armament with turret machine guns or cannons, crewed by gunners. Examine the number of gunners and what belts or drums are better to use. If defensive weaponry is not available remove this subsection.''
+
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}
 +
<!-- ''Defensive armament with turret machine guns or cannons, crewed by gunners. Examine the number of gunners and what belts or drums are better to use. If defensive weaponry is not available, remove this subsection.'' -->
 +
{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)|Browning (7.62 mm)}}
 +
 
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:
 +
 
 +
* 1 x 7.62 mm Browning machine gun, nose turret (500 rpg)
 +
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, front dorsal turret (500 rpg = 1,000 total)
 +
* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, rear dorsal turret (500 rpg)
 +
* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, 2 x beam turret (400 rpg = 800 total)
 +
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, ventral turret (500 rpg = 1,000 total)
 +
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, tail turret (500 rpg = 1,000 total)
 +
 
 +
== Usage in battles ==
 +
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 +
The B-17E Flying Fortress is intended to be used as a high-altitude level bomber in order to target airfields, bases, and land fortifications. Despite its large bomb load, it's not recommended to target moving ground units, such as tanks or armoured cars, especially when they are travelling in tight columns due to the inaccuracy of your bombs at high altitudes and the ability for the AI on the ground to perform evasive manoeuvres when bombs are falling onto their position. When using the B-17E, it is best to fly with another friendly bomber or fighter (if possible) to ensure maximum protection. If you are flying alone, side climb then fly along the edge of the map to the enemy base. NEVER fly directly toward the enemy base; interceptors will trace your path and shoot you down.
 +
 
 +
The B-17E is designed specifically to withstand the harshest punishment during combat. The bomber itself provides plenty of armour along the fuselage and tail except for the nose, which is the only area that's not protected by any form of protection. The armour ranges from 6.35 mm sheets to a single 38 mm glass plate protecting the tail gunner. Speaking of armour protection, in order to ensure the greatest chance of survival during an interception, you must not move. The B-17E is not designed to execute sharp defensive manoeuvres (turns, dives, and rolls) unlike its predecessor the [[B-25J-20|B-25]], but rather designed to use its defensive armament provided (consisting of 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm turrets) to fight back against harassing enemy fighters. Some great advice for novice bombardiers is to include incendiary ammunition in your turret belts. This crucial precaution will guarantee more lethal firepower coming from your defensive armament, since not only are you penetrating armour, but you are also setting components ablaze. However, the armour and defensive armaments typically won't save you from the high tier interceptors and cannon-armed fighters (especially german heavy fighters/interceptors that are armed with 30 mm cannons and get air spawns) you will face. Since they are all heavily armoured, while possessing the ability to rip your wings off with a few 20 mm cannon shots or one shot you with the 30 mm from 1.5 km away, it is better to just avoid them all together by side climbing and using cloud cover when heading to the enemy base. NEVER head straight to the enemy base because the enemy player will trace your flight path from your spawn point to their base and easily intercept you. Also unlike the B-25, the B-17 does not have particularly effective armour or defensive armament in the front, so if an enemy fighter decides to go head on, try turning away to expose your tail, which is a lot more protected against the incoming fighter. If not then both pilots could get knocked out and send you straight back to the hanger.
 +
 
 +
In conclusion, the B-17E is a great introduction for players using the American bomber line. Although it is not the "immortal gunship" B-17 of old, if used well, the B-17E is a force be reckoned with.
  
−
== Usage in the battles ==
+
=== Manual Engine Control ===
−
''Describe the tactics of playing in an aircraft, the features of using vehicles in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
 +
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
 +
! colspan="3" | Radiator
 +
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
 +
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 +
|-
 +
! Oil !! Water !! Type
 +
|-
 +
| Controllable || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Combined || Controllable<br>1 gear || Auto controlled
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
''Summarize and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Do not use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - they have a substitution in the form of softer "inadequate", "effective".''
+
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Large bomb load
 +
* Heavy defensive armament
 +
* Multiple engines (preserves speed when damaged)
 +
* Very sturdy fuselage able to soak up heavy damage
 +
* Calibres below 12.7 mm are ineffective against it
 +
* Defensive armaments provide all-around coverage
 +
* Performs well at high altitudes
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
*
 
  
−
== Historical part ==
+
* Poor climb rate
−
''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to an article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ historical reference" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/index.php?title=Name-vehicles/historical reference) and add a link to it here using the main template. Be sure to include links to sources at the end of the article.''
+
* Nose is extremely vulnerable
 +
* Cannons are very effective against it
 +
* Multiple engines mean multiple fires
 +
* Sluggish controls and very difficult to manoeuvre
 +
* Engines will overheat at 100%
 +
* Slow, will likely encounter enemies that will intercept before you ever get anywhere near target
 +
* Wings and tail are rather fragile
 +
* .50 cals don't do as much damage as hoped for
 +
 
 +
== History ==
 +
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 +
 
 +
The B-17E Flying Fortress was an improved version of the B-17D and earlier B-17 variants. It featured a tail gunner's position and a rotating dorsal turret behind the cockpit; both turret had an armament of two .50 cal M2 Browning machine guns. Previously, the B-17 had a blind spot at the rear, where no gunners could fire. The tail gunner's position allowed protection from the rear. To fit the new tail gunner's position, the fuselage had to be up-sized. A larger, redesigned vertical stabilizer was also added to the tail. Additionally, the teardrop shaped sliding panels at the waist gunners' stations were replaced by rectangular windows. This increased visibility from those positions. On the first 1/5 of the production run, the B-17E was equipped with a ventral remote-controlled Bendix turret, similar to that on the B-25 Mitchell.
 +
 
 +
The production of the B-17E amounted to 512 aircraft, which gave the B-17E the distinction of being the first Flying Fortress variant to be mass produced. The production was too much for the Boeing factories to keep up with, so Lockheed and Douglas also produced the B-17E. Douglas built a new factory for the production of the Flying Fortress, and Boeing built an additional factory just for the production of the B-17.
 +
 
 +
45 B-17E Flying Fortresses were transferred to the Royal Air Force (RAF) in 1942. These were designated as the Fortress IIA, and they were used by the Coastal Command to carry out anti-submarine patrols.
 +
 
 +
{{break}}
 +
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 +
The legendary B-17 American heavy bombers were rightly called Flying Fortresses. This four-engine heavy bomber was an all-metal hero, an extremely durable aircraft that could return to the airfield with just one engine, riddled with bullets.
 +
 
 +
But the early models of the B-17 had a significant blind spot in the rear, so fighter support was required. To solve this problem, the B-17E was produced, and a turret with two 12.7mm machine guns was installed in the tail section of the aircraft. To do this, the fuselage size had to be increased. In addition, to improve control of the plane, the tail was broadened and a larger vertical fin was installed.
 +
 
 +
Although it lost some speed when compared to the B-17D, the new model fared favourably with its new protection and thus became the first truly mass-produced B-17. From September 5, 1941 to May 1942, 512 aircraft were made on the production line, before the development of the B-17F.
 +
{{Navigation-End}}
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
''An excellent addition to the article will be video guides, as well as screenshots from the game and photos.''
+
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Skins
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=b-17e Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|DoZLyWJ5lRw|'''The Shooting Range #222''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 03:55 discusses air combats between the {{PAGENAME}} and H6Ks in the Pacific.}}
  
−
== Read also ==
+
== See also ==
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example,''
+
<!-- ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
−
''ETC.''
 
  
−
== Sources ==
+
;Related development
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
* [[B-17 (Family)]]
 +
 
 +
;Aircraft of a similar configuration and role
 +
* [[Me 264]]
 +
* [[Pe-8]]
 +
* [[M.B.162]]
 +
 
 +
== External links ==
 +
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
−
* ''page on aircraft encyclopedia;''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
* ''other literature.''
+
 
 +
* [[wt:en/news/4176-profile-b-17-flying-fortress-en|[Profile] B-17 Flying Fortress]]
 +
 
 +
{{AirManufacturer Boeing}}
 +
{{USA bombers}}

Latest revision as of 17:21, 11 October 2024

This page is about the American bomber B-17E. For other versions, see B-17 (Family).
B-17E
b-17e.png
GarageImage B-17E.jpg
B-17E
USA flag.png USA
III Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
4.7 4.7 5.7
Class:
Research:26 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:76 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png

Description

The B-17 Flying Fortress is one of the most iconic USAF bombers of WWII. The B-17E was the first version of the Flying Fortress produced in large numbers, with 512 delivered. Unlike previous versions, the B-17E had larger and extended fuselage by 3m, as well as a vertical tailfin, rudder, and horizontal stabilizer added. A new tail gunner position was made in the new fuselage, dorsal and remotely operated ventral turret made by Sperry were also added. All these modifications also increased the aircraft's weight by about 20%, so a more powerful version of Wright R-1820 Cyclone 9 engines were used.

In the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27, the B-17E is the first USAF heavy bomber that pilots will come across in the US tree. The legendary Flying Fortress features excellent defensive armament consisting of over 10 x 12.7 mm machine guns spread across multiple turrets, paired with decent bomb load of up to 8,000 lb of ordnance, which is enough to destroy two bombing points. However, the B-17's wings are very fragile, so caution is advised when turning so as not to overload them.

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 7 680 m510 km/h
Turn time36 s
Max altitude11 156 m
Engine4 х Wright R-1820-65
Type
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight31 t
Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 7,680 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 496 483 11156 36.9 37.9 5.8 5.7 600
Upgraded 523 510 35.1 36.0 8.7 7.2

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
✓ ✓ ✓ X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
516 290 383 361 249 ~3 ~2
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 330 < 310 < 270 > 300

Survivability and armour

Crew9 people
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear290 km/h
  • 6.35 mm Steel plate behind nose gunner.
  • 6.35 mm Steel plates behind pilots.
  • 6.35 mm Steel plates behind dorsal gunners.
  • 6.35 mm Steel plates in front of beam gunners.
  • 6.35 mm Steel plates in front of tail gunner.
  • 38 mm Bulletproof glass in front of tail gunner.
  • 38 mm Bulletproof glass ball turret.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB1 092 → 1 474 Sl icon.png
RB2 670 → 3 604 Sl icon.png
SB5 509 → 7 437 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications24 400 Rp icon.png
44 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 100 Ge icon.png
Crew training22 000 Sl icon.png
Experts76 000 Sl icon.png
Aces500 Ge icon.png
Research Aces320 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
80 / 180 / 340 % Sl icon.png
142 / 142 / 142 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
130 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
130 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
1 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
150 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
1 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
150 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 700 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 700 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
2 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 600 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods bulletproof vest.png
Protective vest
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
130 Ge icon.png
Mods engine extinguisher.png
EFS
Research:
2 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 600 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
bmg30_turret_belt_pack
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
130 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods turret gun.png
bmg30_turret_new_gun
Research:
1 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
150 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
LBC-17
Research:
1 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
150 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods ammo.png
bmg50_turret_belt_pack
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 700 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
SBC-17
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 700 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods turret gun.png
bmg50_turret_new_gun
Research:
2 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 600 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
MBC-17
Research:
2 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 600 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png

As a slow and lumbering heavy bomber, the Flying Fortress relies entirely on its turrets for defence. Without it, the plane is a piñata. Thus, "Protective vests" should be the first unlock. Further survivability upgrades will make fending off attacks easier but do not think to stand successfully against enemy fighters. So upgrading the bomb load should be second priority. Performance modules can be considered least necessary, it will not go anywhere quick anyway.

Armaments

Suspended armament

List of setups (4)
Setup 18 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb
Setup 212 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb
Setup 36 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb
Setup 42 x 2000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb
Main articles: AN-M64A1 (500 lb), AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb), AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)

The B-17E can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • 8 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (4,000 lb total)
  • 12 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (6,000 lb total)
  • 6 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (6,000 lb total)
  • 2 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs (4,000 lb total)

Defensive armament

3 х Turret2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun
Ammunition1000 rounds
Fire rate750 shots/min
Turret12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun
Ammunition500 rounds
Fire rate750 shots/min
2 х Turret12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun
Ammunition400 rounds
Fire rate750 shots/min
Turret7.62 mm Browning machine gun
Ammunition500 rounds
Fire rate1000 shots/min
Main articles: M2 Browning (12.7 mm), Browning (7.62 mm)

The B-17E is defended by:

  • 1 x 7.62 mm Browning machine gun, nose turret (500 rpg)
  • 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, front dorsal turret (500 rpg = 1,000 total)
  • 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, rear dorsal turret (500 rpg)
  • 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, 2 x beam turret (400 rpg = 800 total)
  • 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, ventral turret (500 rpg = 1,000 total)
  • 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, tail turret (500 rpg = 1,000 total)

Usage in battles

The B-17E Flying Fortress is intended to be used as a high-altitude level bomber in order to target airfields, bases, and land fortifications. Despite its large bomb load, it's not recommended to target moving ground units, such as tanks or armoured cars, especially when they are travelling in tight columns due to the inaccuracy of your bombs at high altitudes and the ability for the AI on the ground to perform evasive manoeuvres when bombs are falling onto their position. When using the B-17E, it is best to fly with another friendly bomber or fighter (if possible) to ensure maximum protection. If you are flying alone, side climb then fly along the edge of the map to the enemy base. NEVER fly directly toward the enemy base; interceptors will trace your path and shoot you down.

The B-17E is designed specifically to withstand the harshest punishment during combat. The bomber itself provides plenty of armour along the fuselage and tail except for the nose, which is the only area that's not protected by any form of protection. The armour ranges from 6.35 mm sheets to a single 38 mm glass plate protecting the tail gunner. Speaking of armour protection, in order to ensure the greatest chance of survival during an interception, you must not move. The B-17E is not designed to execute sharp defensive manoeuvres (turns, dives, and rolls) unlike its predecessor the B-25, but rather designed to use its defensive armament provided (consisting of 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm turrets) to fight back against harassing enemy fighters. Some great advice for novice bombardiers is to include incendiary ammunition in your turret belts. This crucial precaution will guarantee more lethal firepower coming from your defensive armament, since not only are you penetrating armour, but you are also setting components ablaze. However, the armour and defensive armaments typically won't save you from the high tier interceptors and cannon-armed fighters (especially german heavy fighters/interceptors that are armed with 30 mm cannons and get air spawns) you will face. Since they are all heavily armoured, while possessing the ability to rip your wings off with a few 20 mm cannon shots or one shot you with the 30 mm from 1.5 km away, it is better to just avoid them all together by side climbing and using cloud cover when heading to the enemy base. NEVER head straight to the enemy base because the enemy player will trace your flight path from your spawn point to their base and easily intercept you. Also unlike the B-25, the B-17 does not have particularly effective armour or defensive armament in the front, so if an enemy fighter decides to go head on, try turning away to expose your tail, which is a lot more protected against the incoming fighter. If not then both pilots could get knocked out and send you straight back to the hanger.

In conclusion, the B-17E is a great introduction for players using the American bomber line. Although it is not the "immortal gunship" B-17 of old, if used well, the B-17E is a force be reckoned with.

Manual Engine Control

MEC elements
Mixer Pitch Radiator Supercharger Turbocharger
Oil Water Type
Controllable Controllable
Auto control available 		Not controllable
Not auto controlled 		Controllable
Not auto controlled 		Combined Controllable
1 gear 		Auto controlled

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Large bomb load
  • Heavy defensive armament
  • Multiple engines (preserves speed when damaged)
  • Very sturdy fuselage able to soak up heavy damage
  • Calibres below 12.7 mm are ineffective against it
  • Defensive armaments provide all-around coverage
  • Performs well at high altitudes

Cons:

  • Poor climb rate
  • Nose is extremely vulnerable
  • Cannons are very effective against it
  • Multiple engines mean multiple fires
  • Sluggish controls and very difficult to manoeuvre
  • Engines will overheat at 100%
  • Slow, will likely encounter enemies that will intercept before you ever get anywhere near target
  • Wings and tail are rather fragile
  • .50 cals don't do as much damage as hoped for

History

The B-17E Flying Fortress was an improved version of the B-17D and earlier B-17 variants. It featured a tail gunner's position and a rotating dorsal turret behind the cockpit; both turret had an armament of two .50 cal M2 Browning machine guns. Previously, the B-17 had a blind spot at the rear, where no gunners could fire. The tail gunner's position allowed protection from the rear. To fit the new tail gunner's position, the fuselage had to be up-sized. A larger, redesigned vertical stabilizer was also added to the tail. Additionally, the teardrop shaped sliding panels at the waist gunners' stations were replaced by rectangular windows. This increased visibility from those positions. On the first 1/5 of the production run, the B-17E was equipped with a ventral remote-controlled Bendix turret, similar to that on the B-25 Mitchell.

The production of the B-17E amounted to 512 aircraft, which gave the B-17E the distinction of being the first Flying Fortress variant to be mass produced. The production was too much for the Boeing factories to keep up with, so Lockheed and Douglas also produced the B-17E. Douglas built a new factory for the production of the Flying Fortress, and Boeing built an additional factory just for the production of the B-17.

45 B-17E Flying Fortresses were transferred to the Royal Air Force (RAF) in 1942. These were designated as the Fortress IIA, and they were used by the Coastal Command to carry out anti-submarine patrols.


Archive of the in-game description

The legendary B-17 American heavy bombers were rightly called Flying Fortresses. This four-engine heavy bomber was an all-metal hero, an extremely durable aircraft that could return to the airfield with just one engine, riddled with bullets.

But the early models of the B-17 had a significant blind spot in the rear, so fighter support was required. To solve this problem, the B-17E was produced, and a turret with two 12.7mm machine guns was installed in the tail section of the aircraft. To do this, the fuselage size had to be increased. In addition, to improve control of the plane, the tail was broadened and a larger vertical fin was installed.

Although it lost some speed when compared to the B-17D, the new model fared favourably with its new protection and thus became the first truly mass-produced B-17. From September 5, 1941 to May 1942, 512 aircraft were made on the production line, before the development of the B-17F.


Media

Skins
Videos
The Shooting Range #222 - Pages of History section at 03:55 discusses air combats between the B-17E and H6Ks in the Pacific.

See also

Related development
Aircraft of a similar configuration and role

External links


Boeing Aircraft
Aircraft 
Fighters  P-26A-33 · P-26A-34 M2 · P-26B-35
Bombers  B-17E · B-17E/L · B-17G-60-VE
  B-29A-BN
Export  P-26A-34 · B-17G
Captured  ▅B-17E
Helicopters 
Attack  AH-64A · AH-64D
Export / Licensed  AH-64A (GR) · ▃AH-64A Peten · AH-64A Peten · ▅AH-64DJP · ▄AH Mk.1 · AHS
See Also  Tupolev Design Bureau · Westland Helicopters · Fuji Heavy Industries
  For Boeing-built ships, see Boeing Marine Branch

USA bombers
Dive  SB2U-2 · SB2U-3 · SBD-3 · SB2C-1C · SB2C-4
Torpedo  TBD-1 · PBY-5 Catalina · PBY-5A Catalina · TBF-1C · BTD-1
Medium  B-10B · B-18A · B-34 · PV-2D · B-25J-1 · B-25J-20 · A-26C-45 · A-26C-45DT · B-26B
Heavy  B-17E · B-17E/L · B-17G-60-VE · PB4Y-2 · B-24D-25-CO · B-29A-BN
Hydroplanes  OS2U-1 · OS2U-3 · PBM-1 "Mariner" · PBM-3 "Mariner" · PBM-5A "Mariner"

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