Affectionately known as "The Jug," the P-47 was a heavy fighter for its time, weighing in at 1,000 tons.
Designed as an interceptor, it found its true role as a powerful ground-attack aircraft.
Its tremendous structural strength and massive radial engine, which withstood damage better than inline-engine fighters like the P-51 and P-38, helped it endure the rigors of combat.
In March 1942, the first production models rolled off the assembly line, and by January 1943, the 56th Fighter Group was the first to have the new fighter operational, with the 8th Air Force based in Great Britain.
Production culminated with the P-47D, the largest production run.
The P-47D had a more powerful high-altitude engine and a heavier bomb load.
With drop tanks, the P-47 could escort bombers as far away as Berlin.
These Thunderbolts were built in several production batches and under various designations.
Plastic model kit
- Photo-etched parts included
Scale 1:32
unbuilt / unpainted
Paint and glue not included
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