What a B-17 needs to attack warships effectively

Could B-17s be made combat-effective against warships?

Yes, but only with accurately guided weapons such as laser-guided bombs, torpedoes, or suitable air-to-ground missiles.

The panel rejects ordinary high-altitude bombing as a reliable way for B-17s to hit maneuvering warships. Laser-guided bombs would provide the accuracy needed to make the bomber genuinely effective in the anti-ship role. Torpedoes or a guided air-to-ground weapon are offered as other possible solutions. The weapon and guidance system determine whether the conversion works.