The P-47 "Thunderbolt", built by Republic Aviation, was developed as a heavyweight fighter
and made its first flight on May 6, 1941. 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
World War II, the P-47 served in almost every active war theater and in the air forces of the British, Free French, Russians, Mexicans, and Brazilians.
By the end of World War II, more than 15,600 Thunderbolts had been built.
Early P-47 aircraft were built with metal-framed "greenhouse" type
cockpit canopies ("razor back" "Jug"). Late D series aircraft and all M and N series production aircraft
were given clear "bubble" canopies, which gave the pilot improved rearward vision.
Source and Link:
U.S.A.F. Museum.Fully assembled, Handcrafted Model Airplane with Removable
Desk Stand.
(Scale: 1/32, Length: 13.5", Wing Span: 15")
)
