Martin PBM-5 Mariner
Glenn L. Martin Company · United States · first flew 1943 · transport aircraft
The Martin PBM-5 Mariner was the definitive production variant of the PBM series, powered by two Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp radials in place of the earlier Wright R-2600 engines, giving it improved performance for long-range maritime patrol and anti-submarine missions. It was one of the largest American flying boats of World War II.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, straight |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × piston, wing-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 24.33 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Twin fin |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Large gull-wing patrol flying boat
- Twin radial engines on high gull wing
- Twin-fin tail and retractable wingtip floats
Distinguished by its pronounced gull-wing form with engines mounted at the break, deep boat hull, twin tail fins, and retractable wingtip floats. Larger and more angular than the PBY Catalina.
Specifications
- The Martin PBM-5 Mariner has a length of 24.33 m (80 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 35.97 m (118 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 340 km/h (211 mph).
- Typical crew: 7–9.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Martin developed the Mariner in the late 1930s to supplement and eventually replace the Consolidated PBY Catalina, with the PBM-5 entering service in 1944 and becoming the most-produced Mariner variant. The type served extensively in the Pacific and Atlantic theatres in patrol, search-and-rescue, and transport roles, and continued in US Navy service into the early 1950s.
Variants
The PBM-5 introduced the R-2800 engines; the PBM-5A added amphibious landing gear, and the PBM-5S was a stripped anti-submarine patrol version. An earlier PBM-3 series used R-2600 engines.
Where you'll see it
Operated primarily by the US Navy and US Coast Guard; small numbers also served with Argentina and the Netherlands. The type is no longer in service.
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