Question B24 Liberator used by RAF Group No. 205

[Kurtl12]

Gentlemen,
Does anyone know if the Liberators used by Group No. 205 had british .303 ammo on board? Or did they used the regular US Browning .5 caliber? Thanks for your help! - Kurtl

[Graham Boak]

The majority (if not all) of the Liberators in 205 Group were Mk.VIs and Mk.VIIIs (B-24H or J) delivered with the US weapons. These aircraft were not normally, if ever, rearmed. It is possible that some individual aircraft may have carried an additional gun or two, but it seems unlikely.

There may have been some residual Mk.IIs, which were built to British requirements and fitted with Boulton Paul turrets using 0.303s, but I'd be a little surprised.

[stefaan]

Hi.
B-24's were part of the 'Lend-Lease' deal, therefor had to use USA weapons.
If A/c were sold to the RAF, like early Baltomores, you will find that they used British ammo (.303). in eg Boulton Paul turrets.
The early B-24's seen in the western Desert may have been sold to the RAF.
You will have to see if their serials are on the Lend Lease list in the book from Air Britain.
205 BG only came into being in Italy.
Stefaan

[Kurtl12]

Thanks for the answers, so I guess they rather not had .303 ammo on board.
Stefaan if I come across with a B-24 Mk. VI serial No could you check for me if it had Boulton Paul turrets and so used .303 ammo? Kurtl

[stefaan]

Hi Kurt.
Don't know if it was even tested. Will have to be on the D models only, but never seen.
Only seen on Baltimores. (MK III's)
Be good
Stefaan

[Graham Boak]

If you find the serial, the history will be in the AB Liberator book in some detail.