B-17F Flying Fortress

The Boeing B-17F Flying Fortress, introduced in 1940, represented the pinnacle of American heavy bomber design during World War II. Developed from earlier B-17 variants, the F model incorporated a redesigned cockpit, stronger airframe, and upgraded defensive armament, boasting thirteen .50‑caliber machine guns and a dorsal turret that gave it the nickname “Flying Fortress.” Powered by four Wright R-1820 Cyclone radial engines delivering 1,200 hp each, the B‑17F could carry up to 8,000 pounds of bombs on a 2,000‑mile combat radius, while cruising at 150 mph and reaching a service ceiling of 35,600 feet. Its rugged construction allowed it to sustain extensive damage and still return safely, a trait that earned legendary status among crews. First deployed by the U.S. Army Air Forces in the European theater, the B‑17F played a decisive role in daylight strategic bombing campaigns, notably over Germany and occupied France. The aircraft’s combination of firepower, durability, and long‑range capability set new standards for strategic airpower and influenced post‑war bomber development, cementing the B‑17F’s place as an icon of aviation history. Today, restored B‑17Fs are displayed in museums worldwide, and a handful still take to the skies, reminding new generations of the aircraft’s enduring legacy.

Boeing

B-17F Flying Fortress

Classification

Production & History

Design & Classification