P-47 Thunderbolt

Affectionately nicknamed Jug, the P-47 was one of the most famous AAF fighter planes of World War II. Although originally conceived as a lightweight... more

by Dale Jackson

Title

P-47 Thunderbolt

Artist

Dale Jackson

Medium

Digital Art - Digital Painting

Description

Affectionately nicknamed "Jug," the P-47 was one of the most famous AAF fighter planes of World War II. Although originally conceived as a lightweight interceptor, the P-47 developed as a heavyweight fighter and made its first flight on May 6, 1941. The first production model was delivered to the AAF in March 1942, and 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 WWII, the P-47 served in almost every active war theater and in the forces of several Allied nations. By the end of WWII, more than 15,600 Thunderbolts had been built. (National Museum of the Air Force)

Uploaded

March 26th, 2013