B-17 Bombers: Manufacturing Locations and Historical Context

B-17 bombers, often referred to as Flying Fortresses, played a significant role in the Allied victory during World War II. This article delves into the locations where these aircraft were manufactured, drawing from historical records and current observations. Understanding these details not only enhances our knowledge of aircraft production during wartime but also provides insights into the broader context of manufacturing during such pivotal periods.

Manufacturing Locations of B-17 Bombers

The B-17 bomber series was produced in several locations across the United States. Initially, the B-17E was primarily manufactured at the Boeing factory in Seattle, Washington, at Plant No. 2, just west of Boeing Field, which now operates as King County International Airport. As production demands increased, additional manufacturing sites were set up.

Boeing Seattle Plant No. 2 - B-17E

The B-17E was the first significant production run of the B-17 series. Boeing, a leading manufacturer of aircraft during World War II, established this plant specifically for the production of the B-17E. The plant was strategically located near Seattle, leveraging the city's significant industrial capacity and workforce.

B-17F and BVD Consortium

For the B-17F model, numbers started to ramp up, and Boeing partnered with other manufacturers to meet the high demand. The BVD (B-17 Very D fast) consortium, comprised of Boeing, Vega subsidiary of Lockheed in Burbank, California, and Douglas in Long Beach, California, became a significant player in the B-17 production process. The Vega subsidiary, based at Lockheed Air Terminal (now Burbank Airport), and Douglas, based in Long Beach (nearby Long Beach Airport), contributed to the massive production of B-17F bombers.

Final Model: B-17G

The final and most common version, the B-17G, was built in large quantities at all three sites. The clustering of these factories in the urban West Coast regions not only expedited production but also optimized logistics and supply chains. Despite the valuable urban real estate, these locations have since been redeveloped, leaving behind a rich history worth exploring.

Other Relevant Aircraft Manufacturing

While the focus has been on B-17 bombers, it's worth noting that there were other aircraft manufacturers involved in the production of similar aircraft structures. For instance, Saab, a Swedish company, manufactured a dive bomber version of the B-17, known as the B-17 dive bomber, at their aircraft factory in Linkoping, Sweden.

Manufacturing at Saab Aircraft Factory

The Saab B-17 dive bomber was a unique addition to the fleet. Unlike the B-17 Flying Fortress, which was primarily for strategic missions, the Saab variant was optimized for dive bombing. This different model showcased the adaptability of the B-17 design in various roles, addressing the specific needs of the Swedish military.

Historical Significance and Modern Perspectives

The production of B-17 bombers was part of the broader effort to build the arsenal of democracy. This initiative involved numerous manufacturers working together to meet wartime demands, often through licensed production and partnerships. The locations where these aircraft were manufactured reflect the complex and dynamic nature of wartime production.

Today, these locations are redeveloped, but their historical significance endures. Understanding the history of these sites not only enriches our knowledge of the war effort but also underscores the importance of preserving industrial heritage.

Exploring the measures taken to disguise these facilities from aerial reconnaissance and bombing during the war, despite the often illusory threat, provides a fascinating glimpse into the technological and strategic aspects of the conflict. This highlights the continuous efforts to enhance both defense and production capabilities during wartime.

Conclusion

The manufacture of B-17 bombers involved multiple sites across the United States, primarily centered around Seattle, Washington, and the Los Angeles area. These locations were crucial not only for their production capacity but also for their strategic positioning in wartime America. The transformation of these sites post-war speaks to the resilience and adaptability of the industrial sector, cementing the significance of the B-17 bombers in the narrative of World War II.