These weaknesses led to the Reed Project, Robert J. Reed, the Engineering Officer conducted a study with a plan for making recommendations on how best these problems could be fixed. A B-17E was set aside for use in planning and effecting trial modifications. Upon investigations the problems found were, lack of sufficient firepower forward, insufficient organization of the combat crew, tail heavy balance condition, difficulties with the lower ball turret and inadequate oxygen supply for turrets. Solutions were proposed but many of the changes were too involved for the 8th Air Force to take on at the time so the aircraft was sent to the United States. the B-17E with modifications was named 'Dreamboat.' Features of Dreamboat included radical armament changes, consolidated hydraulic power turrets, provided better optical conditions for sighting, armour plate, and bullet-proof glass, and a more comfortable and efficient operating position for the gunners. A longer radio aerial wire running from nose to fin and fin to wing provided a stronger signal. The oxygen system layout was redesigned to make it as invulnerable as possible. Each crew member had his own double line so that if one line failed he could still receive half the supply."
Hmm. A clue to the clue then - it's at an unusual viewing angle (not manipulated, just at an angle you wouldn't normally expect).
Second clue - it's a type used extensively in Europe, Africa and other parts of the World - but it's not of Russian origin.