Warbird Information Exchange

Probly seen before,but cool Pic.

The photograph is not of an A-36, but a P-51. This is the original type designated P-51, with no suffix letter. Identifiable by the 20mm Hispano cannon in the wings. The A-36 had the 0.50 cal 'cheek' guns in the nose and twin 0.50 cals in the wings, plus the hardpoins for bombs and the dive brakes. Originally produced under a Lend-Lease contract for the RAF, a number were retained by the USAAF after the US entered the war, but the majority of the contract did go to the RAF. Known as the Mustang Mk.1A in RAF service. The shortfall in numbers held back by the USAAF was made up with P-51As from a later order, known at Mustang Mk.II in RAF service.

A nice photo though showing the radiator arrangement at the fully open position, often used when ground running or taxiing the aircraft.

Regards,

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Colin Ford
Canberra
Australia
No.268 Squadron Royal Air Force 1940-46
Historian by Appointment

I didn't know the early P51s had movable entrances on the scoops.

From Mr. jbaugher

37427/37429 delivered to USAAF as P-51-2

Pretty sure she spent at least part of her time as a test bird at Wright-Pat.

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It was a good idea, it just didn't work.