Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer
Technical Information

Background
In May 1943, the U.S. Navy contracted with Consolidated-Vultee Aircraft Company to build the PB4Y-2 Privateer with a signle tail fin verus the double tail PB4Y-1 Liberator. Initially, the new aircraft was dubbed the "Sea Liberator" but instead was nicknamed "Privateer".

Since approximately 50 percent of the bombers internal components were changed and the belly turret deleted, it was essentially a new aircraft. In addition to the single fin, seven feet was added to the length, and two Martin upper turrets and twin Erco waist blisters were installed. The defensive armament of the Privateer was not diminished with it having twelve .50 caliber machine guns versus to ten on the Liberator.

The PB4Y-2 was a heavily armed gun platform and could readily defend itself from fighter attack while unleashing punishing blows on Japanese shipping and shore installations. In April 1945, some Privateers were modified to carry the Bat and were designated as the PB4Y-2B. In January 1945, the first squadron outfitted with the Privateer arrived in the Pacific.

Production
A total of 739 were built by Consolidated Aircraft Corporation at San Diego.

Technical Details
Crew  11
Engine  4 x Pratt & Whitney R-1830-94
Span  110'
Length  74' 7"
Height  30' 1"
Maximum Speed  237 mph
Range  2,800 miles
Armament  12 x 50 caliber machine guns
Bombload  12,800 lbs of bombs