World War II Database

1.  Bill says:
29 May 2010 09:37:47 PM

Early model B-17E from the first batch of
277 aircraft. With up to 2,520 gallons of
fuel,the fort had a maximum range of 3,300
miles.
Loaded with 1,730 gallons of fuel, two tons
of bombs, the range was cut down to 2,000
miles. Cruising speed between 195 and 223 mph.

2.  Bill says:
3 Jul 2010 01:13:21 PM

Did you know...

Brazil retired its last operational B-17 in
1968.

3.  Bill says:
7 Aug 2010 03:45:02 PM

During August 1940 the USAAC's B-17's were
camouflaged in Dark Olive Drab on the upper
surfaces with Neutral Gray lower surfaces.

Most of the B-17's built at Boeing still
left the production line, in natural metal.
The USAAC created a Technical Order, that
required all combat aircraft to be painted in Olive Drab, issued in April 1941.

This was the standard camouflage for the next
three years. Later on all USAAF aircraft left
the production lines, in natural metal with
air-superiority established, the need for
camouflaged wasn't necessary.

Photograph shows pre-war markings the red
center ball, in the center of the white star, was deleted after 1942. Tail stripes
were also deleted. However, this fortress
would have U.S. Army painted on the lower
wings.