Originally designed in 1934/35 as a multi-engined aircraft to defend the USA against enemy fleets, the B-17 played its major role in Europe. In 1942 the US Army Air Force 8th Bomber Command, based in England, began a three year daylight bombing campaign on strategic targets in Europe. The final versions ( B-17G ) carried the famous Norden Bomb Sight and a chin turret to defend aginst head-on attacks by enemy fighters. A total of 8,680 B-17G models were built, Boeing's Seattle plant turning out 16 per day!

Recommended Reading B-17 Flying Fortress By H.P. Willmott The B-17 Flying Fortress Story Design-Production-History By Roger A. Freeman B-17 Flying Fortress By Jeffrey L. Ethell B-17 Flying Fortress By Martin W. Bowman B-17 Flying Fortress A Bombing Legend By Michael O'Leary

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