In 1940, at the request of the British, the P-51A ("Mustang") fighter plane was designed by North American Aviation. The design
showed promise and purchases of Allison-powered Mustangs began in
1941, primarily for photo reconnaissance and ground support use due to it's limited
high-altitude performance. But in 1942, tests of P-51B's using the British
Rolls-Royce "Merlin" engine revealed a much improved speed and service ceiling.
In late 1943, Merlin-powered P-51B's entered into air combat over Europe.
Providing high-altitude escort to B-17's and B-24's, the Mustang's scored heavily over
German interceptors. By the end of the war, P-51's had destroyed 4,950 enemy
aircraft in the air, more than any other fighter in Europe.
Mustangs served in nearly every combat zone, including the Pacific. Over 14,800 P-51's were
built by North American Aviation. During the Korean Conflict, P-51D's were used
primarily for close support of ground forces until withdrawn from combat in
1953.
Source and Links:
U.S.A.F. Museum.
New Zealand Fighter Pilots Museum
National Aviation Museum, Canada
Curtis Fowles, P-51 Mustang Links
357th FG, 363rd FS, "Gentleman Jim", Jim Browning.
P-51, 41-4937, named "Gentleman Jim", was flown by Capt. Jim Browing, an original member of the 357th FG. He was killed on February 9, 1945, in a midair collision with an Me-262 while flying Glen Zamke's "Junior Miss".
Limited Edition
Scale: 1/72, Wingspan: 6.25"
Loose Parts: (not suitable for young children)
Fully assembled.
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