01/12/2026
The North American B-25 Mitchell is a legendary American medium bomber that played a crucial role in WWII. It was designed to meet a 1939 requirement for a twin-engine bomber capable of carrying a heavy bomb load long distances — and it delivered. 
Fun Facts About the B-25:
• Named after U.S. Army aviation pioneer Brig. Gen. Billy Mitchell. 
• First flew in 1940 and entered service in 1941. 
• Nearly 9,800 Mitchells were built during the war. 
• The bomber is best known for the Doolittle Raid — a daring 1942 mission where 16 B-25s launched from an aircraft carrier to bomb Japan.
• It wasn’t just a bomber — B-25s also served as gunships, patrol aircraft, and reconnaissance planes due to their versatility. 
• Many surviving B-25s, including the one here in Colorado Springs, are kept flying by museums and warbird groups. 
At the Museum:
The National Museum of World War II Aviation’s B-25 is part of a remarkable collection of flight-restored WWII aircraft that help bring aviation history to life. 
If you haven’t seen this bomber up close yet, it’s a must-see.
