I don't use the 17 unless someone else does first. I got to use it today and had a ball!! They are tuff to bring down, but very fun trying to hold one at bay. If you have at least 3 players, one does the bombing and the other 2 protect your targets, it can be fun and challenging trying to beat it. Especially if your team has a Thunderbolt. In my opinion, it is THE fighter bomber. You can raise holy hell on enemy targets with those big bombs and rockets, and can take down enemy bombers. And do it at 300-425mph!!!

Ya gotta use the 17!! It's awesome, fun, and you earned it. I don't see it as a cheat unless there is just a few players in the game, and then it can't be stopped. No fun for anybody. At least six pilots and you're OK.