![]() (Image source: WikiCommons) It was more like a flying tank The P-47 was a large target, but solid construction made to be a durable opponent in combat. A prototype Thunderbolt first took to the skies on May 6, 1941. Designers soon came up with bigger, more rugged machine: The P-47. ![]() But as the war in Europe demonstrated the need for much more robust warplanes, the company was forced to rethink its plans. Army Air Corps before 1941, Republic was hoping to develop an improved version of the fighter. Based on the small P-43 Lancer, which saw limited service in the U.S. Here are some amazing facts about this remarkable aircraft: The short and stubby P-43 Lancer – the precursor to the Thunderbolt (Image source: WikiCommons) It was originally supposed to be a ‘light’ fighterĬonceived by Georgian-born aircraft designer Alexander Kartveli, the plane that would eventually become the P-47 was originally intended to be a featherweight interceptor. More than 15,600 Thunderbolts were manufactured between 19 and they served in every theatre of the war performing a variety of missions from bomber escort to close air support. Nicknamed the “Jug” (short for “Juggernaut”) by adoring pilots, the P-47 was a heavyweight warbird - and one that packed a devastating punch. And although the Mustang certainly helped win control of the skies over Europe and the Pacific, it was the less glamorous Republic P-47 Thunderbolt that was the real workhorse of the Allied victory. WITH ITS SLEEK LINES, nimble handling and lightning-fast speed, the North American P-51 quickly became a symbol of American air power in World War Two. (Image source: WikiCommons) “More than 15,600 Thunderbolts were manufactured between 19 and they served in every theatre of the war.” ![]() P-47D Thunderbolts of the 345th Fighter Squadron.
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