Liberator 44-40686 “SHORT RUN!” of the 494th BG, 867th BS February 1945
Technical Specifications of the B-24J Liberator
The B-24J Liberator was a widely produced variant of the B-24 bomber, known for its long range and heavy bomb load.
- Powerplant: The B-24J, like many other B-24 variants, was powered by four Pratt & Whitney R-1830-65 Twin Wasp radial engines, each generating 1,200 hp. These engines were known for their reliability and power, enabling the B-24J to achieve a respectable performance.
- Dimensions: The B-24J had a wingspan of 110 ft, a length of 67ft 2in, and a height of 18ft. Its large wing area, spanning 1,048 sq ft, contributed to its impressive range and load-carrying capacity.
- Weights: The B-24J had an empty weight of 36,500 lbs and a maximum gross weight of 65,000 lbs. This weight, along with its powerful engines, allowed the B-24J to carry a substantial bomb load over long distances.
- Performance: The B-24J boasted a maximum speed of 290 mph at an altitude of 25,000 ft. Its cruising speed was 215 mph, and its rate of climb was 25 minutes to reach 20,000 ft. The service ceiling of the B-24J was 28,000 ft, and it had a range of 2,100 miles when carrying a 5,000 lb bomb load. Its maximum range was 3,300 miles.
Armament and Defensive Features:
- Gun Turrets: The B-24J was equipped with multiple gun turrets for defensive purposes. The most common configuration included an Emerson nose turret, Consolidated A-6 waist gun positions, and a Consolidated tail turret. The Consolidated tail turret was standardized on the B-24J, replacing the earlier Consolidated or Sperry ball turrets used on previous models. The choice of Consolidated as the primary supplier of turrets for the B-24 was a result of their efficiency and the positive feedback received from the US Army.
- Defensive Armament: The B-24J had a total of ten .50 caliber machine guns distributed among its turrets.
- Bomb Load: It could carry a bomb load of 8,000 lbs, enabling it to deliver devastating strikes against enemy targets.
Crew and Operational Roles:
- Crew Size: The B-24J had a crew of 10. The crew typically included a pilot, co-pilot, navigator, bombardier, flight engineer, radio operator, and four gunners.
- Operational Roles: The B-24J was primarily used as a heavy bomber, undertaking strategic bombing missions against enemy infrastructure, industrial sites, and military targets. Its long range and heavy bomb load made it well-suited for these roles. It also served in other capacities, including anti-submarine warfare, reconnaissance, and transport.
Production and Deployment:
- Production Sites: The B-24J was produced at various Consolidated plants, including San Diego, Fort Worth, and Tulsa, as well as by Douglas and Ford. This distributed production network allowed for large-scale manufacturing to meet wartime demands.
- Global Deployment: The B-24J saw extensive service in both the European and Pacific Theaters of Operations, serving with the USAAF, RAF, and other Allied air forces. Its versatility and capabilities made it a valuable asset in various operational environments.