The C-97 was based on the B-29 Super Fortress of World War II. The B-29, was known for its speed, payload, and long range capability. After the war, the B-29 was re-engined with powerful Pratt & Whitney R-4360, 28 cylinder, radial engines. This bomber was known as the B-50.

The event of World War II revealed that transportation of supplies would become as major a factor in victory as individual fighting tactics. A second fuselage was built underneath the normal fuselage to hold more freight.

Many C-97s were adapted to the tanker role. They were designated KC-97s. The KC-97 fed fuel, in flight to other aircraft. Long range was necessary in the "Cold War" era of the 1950's in order to extende the range of bombers and fighters.

This C-97G, S/N 52-898, was originally received by the Air Force as a KC-97G-23-BO.

This aircraft is on loan to Octave Chanute Aerospace Museum from the National Museum of the United States Airforce.