Air Power Series>1:48 die-cast display model>P-47>HA8410

General Background

The Republic Aviation P-47 "Thunderbolt" entered service in May 1942 with the introduction of the P-47B. It had a "Razorback", a high dorsal spine behind the side-ways opening canopy that reduced visibility. As improvements were made a "D" variant was produced with 12,602 being manufactured. The British developed a sliding bubble canopy for their Typhoon and this was adopted by the USAAF starting with the P-47D-5. With its ability to survive enemy fire along with impressive armament and bomb load the P-47 excelled at ground attack roles.

The Aircraft

Lt. Frank Oiler served with the 84th FS/78th FG from June 26, 1944 until March 28, 1945. The 84th FG was stationed at RAF Duxford (USAAF Station 357) England between April 1943 – October 1945. On February 22,1945 Oiler was made CO of "F" Flight. During his tour of duty Lt. Oiler had two P-47's, 42-75429 and 42-28878 both wearing his girlfriend's name "Eileen". Late in 1944 the 78th FG began receiving P-51D's with Oiler assigned to P-51D WZ-S "Sherman Was Right" and 42-28878 was transferred to the 56th FG.

Specifications :

Total Number Produced:	12,602 most numerous variant
Crew:	1
Dimensions:
Length:	36 ft. 1 in. (11 m)
Wingspan:	40 ft. 9 in. (12.42 m)
Height:	14 ft. 8 in. (4.47 m)
Performance:
Engine:	1 x Pratt & Whitney R-2800-59 twin-row radial, 2,535 hp (1,890 kW)
Maximum Speed:	433 mph @ 30,000 ft (697 km/h @ 9,145 m)
Service Ceiling:	43,000 ft. (13,100 m)
Rate Of Climb:	3,120 ft/min (15.9 m/s)
Range:	800 mi. combat, 1,800 mi. ferry (1,290 km combat / 2,900 km ferry)
Armament:	8 x .50 in. (12.7 mm) M2 Browning machine guns w/ 3,400 rounds
	Maximum 2,500 lbs (1,134 kg) of bombs
	10 x 5 in. (127 mm) unguided rockets