The Boeing B-17 was the first American heavy bomber to see action in World War when it was supplied to the RAF. The design originated in 1934 when the US Air Corps was looking for a heavy bomber to reinforce their air forces in Hawaii, Panama and Alaska. For its time the design included many advanced features and Boeing continued to develop the aircraft as experience of the demands of long distance flying at high altitude was gained. When the USA entered WWII production of the aircraft was rapidly increased and it became the backbone of the USAAF in all theatres of war. This book describes how it was built and utilizes many hitherto unpublished photographs from the design studio and production lines. It illustrates and explains the many different roles that the aircraft took as the war progressed. Heavy bomber, reconnaissance, anti-submarine and air-sea rescue operations ? there were few tasks that this solid design could not adopt. AUTHOR: Graham Simons is a highly respected historian and author. He has many contacts within the aviation industry which has resulted into him accessing the many unpublished photographs within this book. SELLING POINTS: ? Contains hundreds of unseen photos of the B-17 production line and design concepts ? Chapters include all the many diverse roles in which the aircraft was deployed ? Appendices include pilot experiences and what it was like to fly, unique variants and use by USAAF and the RAF Illustrated *
