B-26 Marauder Weapon Package Question

[Shay]

Seems as though all the U.S. twin-engined medium bomber and attack aircraft during WW2 eventually went to a solid nose multiple gun package.

Except for the Marauder. Anyone know as to why? Or did they test this platform idea and decide against. My understanding was that the B-26 was a great performer.

Were they not suited to low level work?

Thanks

Shay
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Semper Fortis

[Jack Frost]

Some models had forward firing package guns which, combined with the twin 50's in the top turret made for alot of lead delivery. If you're really interested in B-26 operations this site might be interesting; http://www.b-26marauderarchive.org/MHSarc.htm

[Tigercat]

What about the B-26's with the twin downward firing "swing mount" that fires down in the rear area of the plane. The Marauder at the NMUSAF has that configuration.


Ted

[Steve Nelson]

Some Marauders had a fixed forward-firing .50 in the nose, along with the flexible gun. Just a wild guess, but the B-26 nose may not have been roomy enough for a battery of guns and their associated ammo cans. Also, the Invader, Mitchell, and Havoc all had separate nose sections that could be easily removed and replaced with "solid" gun noses, unlike the Marauder. I think I remember reading that the Marauder airframe made extensive use of spot-welding, which would make it more difficult to modify.

As for the lower rear flexible guns, I believe they were standard on all Marauders.

SN