Based on its failed predecessor, the twin-Vulture-engined Manchester, the Lancaster proved to be Britain's premier heavy bomber of World War Two. With four powerful Rolls-Royce Merlin engines and an enormous bomb-bay designed to carry huge 4,000 lb. bombs, and even the 22,000 lb. Grand Slam later in the war, the Lancaster was a heavy hitter. The prototype first flew on 9 January 1941, and the first combat mission took place on 2 March 1942. Popular with its crews, the "Lanc" was maneuverable enough to "corkscrew" away from attacking nightfighters but could sustain large amounts of damage and keep flying. Its defensive armament was among the best of any British aircraft, but was still insufficient to afford adequate protection against concentrated daytime fighter attacks (its gunnery suite was lighter than contemporary U.S. heavy bombers, the B-17 and B-24). But with its awesome payload, the Lancaster was well-suited to the night-bombing role and became the most capable "heavy" in Bomber Command's arsenal.
DEFENSIVE GUNS: In addition to front and top gun turrets with two .303 machineguns each, the Lancaster mounts a powerful quad .303 gun turret in the tail.
