Warbirds! #13: The B-24 Liberator Traditional Cache

Once you understand the capabilities and the record of the Consolidated B-24 heavy bomber, it's hard to believe the big warbird is largely unknown by the general public and overshadowed by the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress. In fact, the B-24 was faster, carried a heavier payload, could handle larger bombs and had a longer range than the B-17. It was also the most prolific heavy bomber and U.S. warbird, with more than 18,000 produced. Powered by four Pratt & Whitney R-1830 double-row radial engines of 1,200 horsepower, the Liberator was most famous for its participation in the air raids on the Axis oil fields in Ploesti.