38 of the more capable B - 17E Flying Fortresses and a dozen LB - 30 Liberators incrementally reinforced both heavy bombardment groups of the FEAF .
Losses were severe and the slow rate of reinforcement was unable to keep pace .
Although 38 of the more capable B - 17E Flying Fortresses and a dozen LB - 30 Liberators incrementally reinforced both heavy bombardment groups of the FEAF , losses were severe and the slow rate of reinforcement was unable to keep pace .