[Coming Soon] B-29A-BN Superfortress: A Flying Bastion

Historical Note

Development of a long-range strategic bomber for the Pacific region began in 1940, initiated by the US Air Corps. Boeing's winning design, later named the B-29, featured groundbreaking innovations: pressurized cockpits, remotely controlled turrets, and powerful Wright R-3350 engines. The prototype flew in September 1942, and serial production started in August 1943. A modified B-29A version, with a redesigned center wing, was introduced during its production run.

The B-29 played a pivotal role in the Pacific War, conducting massive bombing raids on Japan from 1944 onward. Its most infamous actions were the atomic bombings: the Enola Gay struck Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, and the Bockscar hit Nagasaki on August 9. During the Korean War, B-29s were employed for strategic bombing, a role that became obsolete with the emergence of MiG-15 jet fighters. By the 1960s, the B-29 bomber family was retired from service, replaced by the B-47 jets.

B-29A-BN Superfortress (Rank VIII)

SWOT Analysis

• Strengths: Massive payload capacity; 360-degree defensive coverage with large-caliber machine guns.
• Weaknesses: Slow speed; large size; vulnerable wing structures.
• Opportunities: Highly effective for bombing bases from high altitudes.
• Threats: High-altitude fighters equipped with heavy weaponry.

In battle

The B-29A-BN strategic bomber is part of the legendary Superfortress family used by the U.S. Air Force. This four-engine giant can carry an immense bomb load, and its formidable machine gun turrets make hunting it a deadly task for any fighter jet.

The B-29's primary mission is to destroy critical infrastructure like bases and airfields, a task it performs exceptionally well. This high-altitude bomber can deliver up to 20,000 pounds of bombs (from 500 to 4,000 pounds), making it a major threat to enemy bases. Approaching the B-29 is difficult for most fighters, and downing it is an even greater challenge. Its entire airframe is effectively defended by multiple turrets armed with 12.7mm Browning guns, some remotely controlled, ensuring 360-degree coverage. To reliably destroy a B-29, attacking from long range with large-caliber automatic cannons while constantly maneuvering is essential, though this remains an exceptionally difficult feat for pilots.

The B-29's immense dimensions, while enabling a huge bomb capacity, come with inherent drawbacks. Maneuvering the Superfortress is cumbersome, requiring pilots to plan its flight path in advance. Moreover, its wide wings present an inviting target for pursuers; these house fuel tanks that, despite protection, remain vulnerable. The loss of any of the four engines would critically hinder the B-29's already unresponsive controls, creating a substantial challenge for the crew.

For B-29 commanders, survivability is determined by altitude management and skillful turret operation. Maintaining constant situational awareness around the bomber is crucial to detect approaching enemy fighters. Optimal turret use involves delivering short, precise bursts from long distances, conserving ammunition while maximizing the probability of eliminating an incoming threat.

Premium ♠B-29A-BN♠︎ Superfortress (Rank VIII)

The Premium variant is an extra plane for your roster! The premium warplane maintains the same performance as the standard variant, though it comes in a unique camouflage. With this premium warplane you’ll be able to enjoy faster Silver Lion and Research Point gains, and earn some Golden Eagles in your battles.

If you’re lucky enough to unlock both the premium and the standard variants, you will be able to use them both in the same battle!

*Vehicle specifications and camouflages are still work in progress and may differ on release.

The B-29A-BN (Rank VIII) will appear in War Thunder Mobile (WTM) in the seasonal update in the Medium and Big Trophies of the Aviation Campaign.