The B-26 started its life as an unloved and troubled aircraft. It was developed about the same time as the B-25, and like the Mitchell, was ordered straight off the drawing board. The aircraft had several developmental problems and was hard to handle compared to the other aircraft in service. However, once those bugs were worked out it came to become a very reliable and usefull bomber. In fact, it not only flew more mission in the European theater than any other allied aircraft, but it also had the lowest loss rate of any allied aircraft.

The Marauder saw service early in WWII, being sent to Australia the day after Pearl Harbor. However, it saw most of its service in the European theater and played a major role there. It was used to great avail while attacking German Rocket sites and radio positions in France. Even the US Navy ordered a few for recon purposes. After the war the B-26 saw some use as a test aircraft. There are even still a few Marauders being used today to fight fires. This aircraft may have had a troublesome start, but in the end it proved to be a reliable workhorse.

Specs for the B-26.