Naval Aviation
The Martin PBM Mariner flying boat broke the rules long held by the United States Navy, winning a production contract in 1937 without a full-scale prototype and impressing officials across the service as World War 2 neared. Five variants were eventually built, which played a significant role in some of the most critical operations during the Battle of the Atlantic and the Pacific Theater. Soon, the world’s largest twin-engine flying boat became attracted attention for its range, bomb load, ruggedness, and seaworthiness. However, despite being involved in several operations all across the globe, the type’s most significant rival remained home. It was the Consolidated PBY Catalina, the same aircraft the PBM was always meant to succeed… —
Credit Dark Skies
