RAF-in-Combat's Squadrons #21: Boeing Fortress Mk II & III

Fairly early in the war, the RAF was in real need for a decent long range bomber. The Sterling wasn't really cutting it, nor were the others in Bomber Command. So they ordered several B-17Cs from Boeing. Those did not seem to be the ticket either. When the USAAF started its bombing campaign using the B-17F, the British decided to reconsider the Fortress and requested a number of B-17Fs as the Fortress II.

Unfortunately for the RAF, these were in high demand for the USAAF but some B-17Es were made available as the Fortress IIA. Eventually the F model was made available as were the later G model (as the Fortress III).

However, by then, the RAF had the Lancaster and Halifax for Bomber Command to use. However, Coastal Command was always in need of long range patrol and ASW aircraft. The B-17 fit right in place for this task. While not used in huge numbers, the Fortress along with the Liberator provided exemplary service and were credited with the sinking of a number of German submarines as well as being used for some offensive operations.

This book is like others in the series in that we are provided a brief history of the type along with its operational use during WWII. This means a well researched history of the type's use with the various squadrons that flew the plane. In line with others in this series there are some super photos and great full color profiles. The stats section is what you've come to expect from this series, making it a superb reference book and one worth having in your library.

July  2017

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