| Plane type & model |
Monoplane fighter-bomber (P-47D) |
Derivated from precedent Alexander Kartveli ´s models (P-35, P-43, P-44), the prototype of P-47 was initially designed as light fighter in 2 versions, XP-47 and XP-47A. After the European war experiences the USAAC required instead an heavy fighter, modeled on the P&W R-2800 engine. The new XP-47B presented itself as massive and aggressive, interely metallic and with retractile landing gear. Surpassed the first problems, the plane entered the production in 1942 and become operative in April 1943 with the 56th FG in England. The principal series version was the P-47D, with a 2570 Cv powerful engine, built in 12602 exemplars and with the drop cockpit that permitted an exceptional visibilty for the pilot. Big , strong, fast and sturdy, the P-47 gave the best output in ground attack missions, but it was also a good dogfight plane so that it was credited for the destuction of 3752 german fighters in air and 3315 in land on the only North-European front. After the war it was utilized until 1955 by the USAF National Guard and more by other countries. |
