Overview
The Lancaster was the most successful RAF heavy bomber of the Second World War, flying mostly at night. Its long, unobstructed bomb bay could carry huge loads, including the 10-tonne "Grand Slam" earthquake bomb.
It is best remembered for the 1943 "Dambusters" raid, when Lancasters of No. 617 Squadron used Barnes Wallis's bouncing bombs to breach German dams. Specifications are for the B Mk I.
Specifications
Dimensions
| Length | 21.18 m |
|---|---|
| Wingspan | 31.09 m |
| Height | 6.25 m |
| Wing area | 120.5 m² |
Weights & fuel
| Empty weight | 16,571 kg |
|---|---|
| Max. take-off weight | 30,845 kg |
Performance
| Max. speed | 454 km/h |
|---|---|
| Cruise speed | 322 km/h |
| Range | 4,073 km |
| Service ceiling | 6,500 m |
Crew & capacity
| Crew | 7 |
|---|
Powerplant
| Engines | 4 |
|---|---|
| Engine model | Rolls-Royce Merlin XX/22 |
| Power (each) | 954 kW |
Figures are compiled from public sources and may be approximate; they can vary by variant and configuration.
Armament
- Eight 7.7 mm (.303 in) Browning machine guns in three turrets
- Normal bomb load up to 6,350 kg; one 10,000 kg Grand Slam on special versions
Photos
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