Superfortress “Dauntless Dotty” 41-36960 in flight
The service test model YB-29s were pivotal in the development and deployment of the B-29 Superfortress. Here are the key details about the YB-29s and their role:
Overview of YB-29s
- Contract and Production:
- Contract Number: AC-19673.
- Ordered Quantity: 14 YB-29s, serial numbers 41-36954 to 41-36967, construction numbers (c/n) 3325 to 3338.
- Plant: Built at the new government-owned Plant Two in Wichita. Plant One, the old Stearman factory, produced B-29 subassemblies after completing the “Kaydet” biplane trainers in February 1945.
Specifications and Features
- Engines: R-3350-21 engines with three-blade propellers, similar to those on the XB-29s.
- Gun Sighting Blisters: Utilized those developed on the third XB-29.
- Military Equipment: The first B-29s equipped to production standard with full military gear, including armament and various avionics systems.
Avionics Equipment
- Radio Communications:
- SCR-274N: Signal Corps Radio communications set.
- SCR-269-G: Radio compass.
- RC-36: Interphone system.
- SCR-211: Frequency meter.
- SCR-287-A: Liaison set.
- RC-43A: Marker beacon.
- RC-198: Filter equipment.
- RC-103: Receiver equipment.
- SCR-695: Radio set.
- Additional Provisions: For SCR-578 and SCR-515 radios.
Operational Use
- First Flight: The first YB-29 took to the skies on 2 June 1943.
- Roles: Primarily used for testing and training purposes.
- Deployment: At least one YB-29 was sent to India via England.
- Conversions: The first YB-29 was converted to the single XB-39.