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The Coronado resulted from a U.S. Navy request for the development of a maritime patrol bomber larger than the PBY Catalina, one that would have increased performance and good weapon load capability. Though the prototype first flew in December 1937, the Navy did not have the funds at that time to procure the aircraft, and Consolidated had to wait 15 months before orders were placed. During that time improvements in the aircraft's stability and hydrodynamic performance were made, so that the 1939 version was considerably improved. Variants served with the U.S. Navy from 1940 on, with 10 examples being used by the RAF.

Type:          long range flying boat bomber

Crew:          5 TO 10

Armament:      eight .50 cal machine guns

               up to 12,000 lbs. of bombs

Specifications:

        Length:         79' 3" (24.16 m)

        Height:         27' 6" (8.38 m)

        Wingspan:       115' 0" (35.05 m)

        Wing area:     1780 sq. ft (165.36 sq. m)

        Empty Weight:   40,935 lb (18,568 kg)

        Max Weight:    68,000 lb (30,844 kg) max at takeoff

Propulsion:

        No. of Engines: 4

        Powerplant:     Pratt & Whitney R-1830-88 Twin Wasp radial

        Horsepower:    1200 hp each

Performance:

        Range (w/ 8000 lb. bombload): 1370 miles (2205 km)

        Max Range:     2370 miles (3814 km)

        Cruise Speed:   141 mph ( 227 km/h)

        Max Speed:      223 mph ( 359 km/h) at 1500 ft

        Ceiling:        20,500 ft (6250 m)