Martin Baltimore Mk IV

Glenn L. Martin Company · United States · first flew 1942 · bomber

The Martin Baltimore Mk IV introduced more powerful Wright GR-2600-29 Cyclone engines, significantly improving performance in the high-temperature conditions of the Mediterranean theatre where earlier marks had experienced some power limitations.

Recognition (WEFT)

W — Wings	Mid-mounted, tapered
E — Engines	2 × piston, wing-mounted
F — Fuselage	Deep oval fuselage with enclosed dorsal turret
T — Tail	Conventional

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Spot it by:

Baltimore with uprated Wright GR-2600-29 engines
Improved performance over earlier marks in hot conditions
Deep oval fuselage with enclosed dorsal turret

Visually similar to earlier marks; the engine cowling profile changes slightly with the -29 variant Cyclones, but the overall deep-fuselage, mid-wing twin-radial silhouette is the primary Baltimore recognition feature.

Specifications

The Martin Baltimore Mk IV has a length of 14.78 m (48 ft).
It has a wingspan of 18.69 m (61 ft).
Its maximum speed is 508 km/h (316 mph).
Typical crew: 4.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

The Mk IV was produced in substantial numbers and served through the final stages of the North African campaign and into the Italian campaign of 1943–44. The uprated engines noticeably improved climb rate and high-altitude performance, making it more survivable against Axis fighters.

Variants

The Mk V followed with further armament improvements; the Mk IV represented the peak of the main bomber-variant development line.

Where you'll see it

Operated by the RAF and Commonwealth air forces in the Mediterranean; some aircraft were later transferred to smaller Allied air forces.

Related aircraft

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