B-25 Mitchell

Image: US Navy via Wikimedia Commons (Public Domain)

B-25 Mitchell

Designation: B-25J

North American Aviation World War II bomber 1941-1979

Why it matters

The B-25 Mitchell will forever be remembered for the Doolittle Raid — 16 bombers launched from the USS Hornet to strike Tokyo just four months after Pearl Harbor. It was a morale operation that changed the war. But the B-25 was far more than that single mission. It was the most versatile medium bomber of the war, modified into everything from strafers with 18 forward-firing guns to submarine hunters.

Specifications

Max Speed 272 mph
Range 1,350 miles
Service Ceiling 24,200 ft
Engine 2x Wright R-2600-92 Cyclone radials
Power/Thrust 1,700 hp each
Wingspan 67 ft 7 in
Length 52 ft 11 in
Crew 6
Production 9,816 built
First Flight 1940-08-19
Service Dates 1941-1979

Armament

  • • 12-18x .50 cal M2 machine guns (varied by model)
  • • 3,000 lbs bombs

Notable Features

  • Doolittle Raid on Tokyo
  • Gull wing center section
  • Versatile attack platform
  • Served in 11 air forces

Patina notes

B-25s were built for hard use, and the survivors carry that history. The gull wing center section created stress patterns visible in the skin. Many examples show field modifications — gun packages added in theater, armor plating, different nose configurations. The Wright Cyclone engines were reliable but left distinctive oil staining patterns around the nacelles.

Preservation reality

About 45 B-25s remain airworthy — one of the healthier warbird populations. The type's ruggedness and the availability of Wright R-2600 engines help. Many serve as camera ships and airshow performers. The B-25's relatively docile handling makes it a favorite for warbird operators, ensuring continued flying examples for years to come.

Where to see one

  • • National Air and Space Museum
  • • National Museum of the US Air Force
  • • EAA AirVenture (many flying)
  • • Commemorative Air Force Wings

Preservation organizations

  • • Commemorative Air Force
  • • Yankee Air Museum

Sources