4 Amazing Things You’ll Find Inside The B-29 Doc

Historian Frank Berry takes us on an exclusive tour of “Doc,” one of the last surviving B-29 Superfortresses from WWII. Once a top-secret engineering marvel, the B-29 featured cutting-edge technology, including a remote-controlled gunnery system powered by early portable electric computers in 1944.

Berry highlights the groundbreaking advancements that made the B-29 a game-changer:

1. Norden Bombsight

One of WWII’s most guarded secrets, the Norden bombsight allowed for precision bombing. It was so valuable that each unit was watched 24/7—and if a plane was shot down, bombardiers were ordered to destroy it to prevent capture.

2. Remote-Controlled Gunnery System

The co-pilot’s instrument panel housed a gunsight for a fully remote-controlled gunnery system. These turrets were guided by five vacuum tube computers, making them 10 times more accurate than manual aiming.

3. Center Pedestal

This section controlled the autopilot, bomb release mechanisms, and feathering buttons, which allowed pilots to shut down failing engines and reduce drag for emergency landings.

4. Powerful Engines

The B-29 boasted the largest engines of WWII—18-cylinder radial engines producing 2,200 hp each, giving it the power to carry out long-range strategic bombing missions.