North American B-25H-1 Mitchell of the 12th BG 82nd BS, 43-4208, Vikin’s Vicious Virgin Nose Art cannon CBI
The M-4 75mm cannon was a significant modification that transformed the B-25 G/H Mitchell into a formidable “flying field gun.” This large cannon was adapted from the M-4 tank gun, which was typically mounted on the ground or on tanks. To accommodate this powerful weapon within the B-25 G/H, the aircraft’s interior had to be substantially modified.
Key Modifications for the M-4 75mm Cannon:
- Installation Location: The cannon was mounted in the nose of the aircraft, specifically in the space that had previously served as a crawl-way for the bombardier. This area had to be reconfigured to hold the weight and bulk of the cannon.
- Mounting Structure: The M-4 cannon and its carriage assembly were securely bolted to the floor of the aircraft. A flatbed of steel was constructed to provide a stable and reinforced base for the cannon, ensuring that the recoil from firing would not damage the aircraft’s structure.