The North American P-51D was the single most effective American fighter design of World War II. When fitted with the British Rolls-Merlin supercharged engine, the aircraft’s speed at high altitude increased, making it suitable for bomber escort. With the addition of drop tanks (round cylinders beneath the wings) the aircraft’s range increased so that it could escort those bombers anywhere in Europe. The teardrop canopy provided 360 degree visibility, eliminating a blind-spot on earlier versions. The addition of two more fifty caliber machine guns gave it six total and increased firepower, making it a formidable fighter in plane on plane combat and gave it an effective ground attack capability. This elite aircraft rose above all other piston powered designs of World War II, with the only aircraft able to outperform it being the Messerschmitt Me 262. This aircraft can be found at the United States Air Force Museum in Dayton, Ohio. ( http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/ )
Corsairs (Pacific) looked cooler, had a longer active service life, but P51’s defined the period. And Mosquitos helped trim the Luftwaffe down also and it’s fun to look at them all.
These pictures are from the US Air Force Museum in Dayton, Ohio. The Corsair was definitely one of the best planes ever but it wasn’t at the US Air Force Museum. I have pictures of most of the Euro-theater planes except the British because I was competing for camera time in front of the planes with a guy who hogged the really good angles of the Brit planes. Glad you enjoyed the pic. There’ll be more.
Always, I’m an Armor buff, but planes are right up there, thanks good post!
Lovely.
This I remember from an aviation mag on aircraft recognition.
Home Home on the range
where the Huns and the cannon shells fly
where the Mustang sure flips
with four guns on his hips
you’ll be quick on the draw
or you’ll die
silly isn’t it to remember such a thing
I once flew in my friends Mustang late Spencer Flacks , but only as baggage but loved it.
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