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| Affectionately nicknamed "Jug," the P-47 was one of the most famous AAF fighter planes of World War II. Although originally conceived as a lightweight interceptor, the P-47 developed as a heavyweight fighter and made its first flight on May 6, 1941. The first production model was delivered to the AAF in March 1942, and in April 1943 the Thunderbolt flew its first combat mission -- a sweep over Western Europe. Used as both a high-altitude escort fighter and a low-level fighter-bomber, the P-47 quickly gained a reputation for ruggedness. Its sturdy construction and air-cooled radial engine enabled the Thunderbolt to absorb severe battle damage and keep flying. During WWII, the P-47 served in almost every active war theater and in the forces of several Allied nations. By the end of WWII, more than 15,600 Thunderbolts had been built.
Production P-47B, C, early D and G series aircraft were built with metal-framed "greenhouse"-type cockpit canopies. Late D series (dash 25 and later) aircraft and all M and N series production aircraft were given clear "bubble" canopies, which gave the pilot improved rearward vision. SPECIFICATIONS (P-47D): Span: 40 ft. 9 in. Length: 36 ft. 2 in. Height: 14 ft. 8 in. Weight: 17,500 lbs. maximum Armament: Six or eight .50 cal. machine guns and either 10 rockets or 2,500 lbs. of bombs Engine: One Pratt & Whitney R-2800-59 of 2,430 hp Crew: One Cost: $85,000 PERFORMANCE: Maximum speed: 433 mph Cruising speed: 350 mph Range: 1,030 mi. Service ceiling: 42,000 ft. |
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| Bibliography: National Museum of the USAF |