Petlyakov Pe-8 Soviet Strategic Bomber
History
The Pe-8 or TB-8 is the only Soviet Startegic Heavy Bomber used in WWII.
The first prototype was developed in 1936 and mass production started in 1940, though only 93 were built.
By the time of production, it was one of the most advanced heavy bombers in the world, greatly surpassing aircraft like Focke-Wulf Fw-200, and early Boeing B-17.
Due to the shift in the war doctrine by the start of WWII, the produced Pe-8 did not reach their full potential and were built in a very limited series. The focus was changed to frontline aviation because they were deemed to be more important.
The bomb equipment varied from Forty FAB-100 bombs, to four FAB-1000's and later, a single FAB-5000.
The defensive armament was also extensive, though lacking firing angles in front and underneath.
Specifications
Length: 23.2m.
Wingspan: 39.13m.
Height: 6.2m.
Maximum Speed: 220 knots
Armament
2x 20mm ШВАК Machine guns in dorsal and tail turrets.
2x 12.7mm УБТ Machine guns in engine nacelles.
1x 7.62mm ШКАС Machine guns in nose turret.
4x FAB-1000 Bombs
Notes
To get to the nacelle-mounted guns, you will have to wingwalk right on top of the mount.
The maneuverability has been greatly buffed, but that also allows the aircraft to fly even with just one engine running.
Don't count too much on the bomb sight, it doesn't work beyond showing what's underneath.
No, you're not getting the FAB-5000.
