B-17C
The Army Air Corps ordered 38 improved B-17Bs as B-17C in 1940. The B-17C changed from 1,000-hp to 1,200-hp Wright R-1820-65 radial engines. Flat sliding gun panels were installed instead of waist gun blisters, providing greater crew safety and cleaner design. The ventral gun blister was replaced by a "bathtub" turret also.
Twenty B-17Cs were transferred to the RAF (Fortress I), which used them during the early stages of World War II. The remaining 18 C models were modified to the D model configuration and became second line RB-17Ds late in their service lives.
Type Number built/
converted Remarks
B-17C 38 Improved B-17B
Serial numbers: 40-2042 to 40-2079
Notes: Boeing Model 299H; 20 aircraft to RAF as Fortress I; 18 aircraft modified to B-17D standard (became RB-17D in October 1942)
SPECIFICATIONS:
Span: 103 ft. 9 in.
Length: 67 ft. 11 in.
Height: 15 ft. 5 in.
Weight: 48,500 lbs. gross weight (actual - normal load)
Armament: One .30-cal. and six .50-cal. machine guns and 4,800 lbs. of bombs
Engines: Four Wright R-1820-65 turbo-supercharged radials of 1,200 hp each
PERFORMANCE:
Maximum speed: 323 mph at 25,000 ft.
Cruising speed: 227 mph
Service ceiling: 37,000 ft.
Range: 3,400 miles (maximum ferry range)
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