Wings of Wonder: Unveiling the Marvels of the WWII Flying Boat – The Marti JRM Mars

Jan 1, 2024

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In August 1938, the Gle nn L. Martin Aircraft Company received approval from the U.S. Navy to embark on the creation of an innovative flying boat. This aircraft was envisioned to serve dual purposes, functioning both as a leisurely patrol bomber and a slow-moving marvel. The result of this endeavor was the extraordinary JRM Mars, a flying boat that would go down in history as the largest military aircraft ever manufactured for service in the U.S. military.

Throughout its operational life, the Marti n JRM Mars found itself primarily employed by the Canadian Fire Services, tirelessly combatting unending wildfires that ravaged the landscapes of British Columbia.

What set the Marti n JRM Mars apart was its formidable capacity, especially when compared to its smaller counterpart, the Fire Boss. The JRM Mars possessed the astonishing ability to discharge 27,276 gallons of water in a matter of seconds — an amount sufficient to cover an expansive 4 acres of blazing terrain. This starkly contrasted with the meager 819 gallons that a single Fire Boss could release.

As the largest WWII-era production Allied flying boat in existence, the Marti n JRM Mars holds a significant place in history. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of this colossal aircraft, exploring everything you need to know about its remarkable legacy.

The Martiп JRM Mars Was һeаⱱіɩу Iпspired By The PBM Mariпer

When compared to the PBM Mariner, the JRM Mars was envisioned as its evolutionary successor by the team at Glenn L. Martin Aircraft Company. The initial prototype, known as the Buno 1520, was completed in November 1941. This early version differed slightly from the final product, featuring two large vertical tails which were later removed.

In December 1941, the prototype underwent taxi testing, during which Buno 1520 experienced a catastrophic event. A malfunctioning propeller led to a fuel tank leak, causing an engine to catch fire. Following this disaster, repairs were delayed as the United States entered World War II just two days later, prompted by the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.

As the war unfolded, advancements in military technology progressed rapidly, and the long-awaited JRM was finally ready for action. The era of slow-moving bombers became obsolete, making way for larger aircraft with enhanced speed and range. The Marti n JRM Mars, now designated XPB2M-1R, was not designed solely for bombing missions. Recognizing its potential as a military transport, the U.S. Navy opted for clever modifications, replacing wing bomb bays, gun turrets, and armored plating with cargo hatches and loading equipment.

The Martiп JRM Mars Was The Best Flyiпg Boat The World Had Ever Seeп

The formidable dimensions of the Marti n JRM Mars demand admiration, housing four 180-cylinder Wright R-3350 Duplex-Cyclone engines. This colossal flying boat boasted an impressive 2,200 horsepower, propelling it to a top speed of 221 mph. Cruising gracefully at 190 mph and maintaining an altitude of 14,600 feet, the Mars showcased a remarkable range of 4,949 miles.

In line with conventional flying boats, the JRM Mars featured a substantial, rounded hull, with its flight deck elevated for optimal visibility. This elevated position ensured that its pilots could accurately release vast quantities of water precisely where needed. The elongated wings, straight in design with curved red tips, each sported a two-strut pontoon to prevent tipping as the aircraft loaded up with water. One distinctive feature of the Marti n JRM Mars was its ability to transform the 27,276 liters of water it scooped up into foam. This transformation was achieved by combining the water with a chemical concentrate stored in a separate tank.

The Martiп JRM Mars Was A fігe-fіɡһtіпɡ ɩeɡeпd

In the mid to late 1950s, extensive forest fires wreaked havoc on the landscapes of western Canada, causing significant damage to the Forest Industries Flying Tankers depot. This facility produced tankers crucial for combating the rampant wildfires. Recognizing the limited number of airfields but an abundance of surrounding lakes in the affected area, Chief Pilot Dan McIvor of MacMillan-Bloedel proposed an innovative solution to the growing problem—an adept flying boat with exceptional firefighting capabilities. The Marti n JRM Mars emerged as the ideal answer, and in the 1960s, all six JRMs underwent a comprehensive refurbishment at Victoria Airport by Fairway Aviation.

Engineers diligently stripped away unnecessary features initially designed for military transport, optimizing the Marti n JRM Mars for its new firefighting role. The flying boats were equipped with massive water tanks, efficiently replenished by a striking retractable scoop system, transforming the JRM into an aerial firefighting superstar.

As of the end of 2022, a singular flight-worthy Marti n JRM Mars remains, affectionately known as the ‘Hawaii Mars,’ and it is available for sale. If you harbor interest in this remarkable aircraft, a spacious lake is a prerequisite! This firefighting legend shattered boundaries during its years of service, providing tremendous support to the U.S. Navy. Hopefully, its next caretaker will treat this piece of legendary history with the appreciation and respect it rightfully deserves.