SAAB B17C – Facts
The SAAB B17 was Sweden’s first modern all-metal single-engine bomber and reconnaissance aircraft. It was developed in the late 1930s and entered service with the Swedish Air Force in 1940.
The B17C variant was the naval reconnaissance version, equipped with floats instead of wheeled landing gear, designed for coastal and maritime operations.
Basic specifications:
- Manufacturer: SAAB
- Role: Dive bomber / reconnaissance aircraft
- Engine: Pratt & Whitney R-1830 Twin Wasp (~1,050 hp)
- Top speed: ~435 km/h
- Armament:
- 2× 8 mm machine guns in the wings
- 1× flexible 8 mm rear machine gun
- Bomb load up to ~700 kg
- Crew: 2 (pilot + observer/gunner)
The B17 was widely used by the Swedish Air Force during and after World War II, mainly for dive bombing and coastal reconnaissance missions.
Why the SAAB B17C fits well in War Thunder
From both a historical and gameplay perspective, the B17C would be a great fit for War Thunder:
- Clear role at low–mid Battle Rating
It works perfectly as an early dive bomber: stable, reasonably fast for its class, and with a useful bomb load without being overpowered. - Skill-based gameplay
Dive bombing rewards precision, timing, and situational awareness—core mechanics that War Thunder excels at. The B17C’s flight characteristics suit this playstyle very well. - Unique Swedish flavor
The floatplane configuration would make it stand out in the Swedish tech tree, offering something visually and mechanically different compared to standard land-based bombers. - Balanced survivability
Decent speed and a rear gun give it some defensive capability, but it still relies on smart positioning rather than brute force—ideal for fair gameplay balance.
Overall, the SAAB B17C would be a historically accurate, fun, and well-balanced aircraft for War Thunder, especially for players who enjoy precision strike aircraft and unique designs.
