Odd B-17G Instrument Installation

[RAMC181]

Does anyone have an idea why there is an SCS-51 Glide Path Receiver indicator fitted upside-down in the Bombardier's position in this B-17G?



The only other info I can add is that it is probably 42-97947 SC-U of the 401BG, and was H2X-equipped.

All the best,
PB

[Dan K]

Does anyone have an idea why there is an SCS-51 Glide Path Receiver indicator fitted upside-down in the Bombardier's position in this B-17G?

From the expression on his face, I'm guessing the bombardier just asked his pilot the exact same question.

[Robbie Roberts]

Judging by the blacked over nose(You don't see anything through it, do you?) it is probably indicating something in relation to the apparatus in his left hand... I don't know if that item is standard on a B-17 either, but suspect as not. So it may be some sort of radio guided aiming device arrangement, at least in the development stage at that time.

Robbie

[Taigh Ramey]

His left arm is across the chin turret controller and his hand is on the bottom of the gun sight for the chin turret.

This is a strange one for sure.

I would venture a guess that this may have been associated with the radar or guidance from the radar operator for radar bombing.

I think the shot was taken at night and the flash bulb didn't have anything outside of the nose to light up, which is why the nose appears dark.

I like the extensions on his chest pack parachute. It appears to give him some freedom of movement while his chute is still attached. Maybe in the heat of combat (read; aircraft explodes) and he finds himself outside of the aircraft he will have taken his chute with him.

[RAMC181]

Thanks All,

The photo is one of a pair originally taken to illustrate the parachute pack safety strap the 401BG had come up with.

TTFN,
Paul