The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress is said to be most widely operated strategic heavy bomber in World War II. With its ability to fly at higher altitudes than enemy fighters, the B-17 was used in daylight strategic precision bombing and made great contributions to the war effort for the Allies. The Fortress boasted the first turbo supercharger engines ever installed on a bomber, impregnability in the form of high defensive capabilities and a large number of defensive machine guns that could ward off attacks from intercepting fighters. Due to its flying range, speed, toughness and high defensive capabilities, the B-17 was used in a wide variety of operations in addition to strategic bombing including air reconnaissance and cargo transport. With its versatility and wide usage, there would be little argument in saying that the B-17 was truly a great contributor to the Allied war effort.