Air Power Series>1:48 die-cast display model>P-47>HA8411

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

In September 1942 Glenn Eagleston earned his wings and was assigned to the 20th FG but transferred to the 354th FG in England October 1943. In December 1943 the 354th “Pioneers” began flying P-51s over France. During WWII Eagleston accumulated 18.5 victories, all in P-51s. After D-Day the 354th FG moved operations to France. In October 1944 Glenn Eagleston took command of the 353rd FS now equipped with P-47Ds and flew their first mission on November 26, 1944. On February 16, 1945 the 353rd parked the P-47s and began flying the P-51 again.

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