The P-51 Mustang is arguably the most significant fighter of all time.  With its long-range capability, the P-51 was the first fighter capable of escorting Allied bombers at high altitude deep into Europe for the entire duration of their mission.  The P-51 carried six 0.50 caliber machine guns, three in each wing.  When brought to bear, these guns provided concentrated firepower capable of defeating any enemy aircraft.  Ultimately, it dominated the skies over Europe to the conclusion of World War II.  It is credited with more air-to-air victories than any other Allied fighter.

The main vulnerability of the P-51 was its liquid cooled V-12 engine.  Radiator coolant loss through the smallest nick in a radiator line or blown hose clamp could lead to engine overheating and engine failure in moments.  Because of this, it was much riskier to attack ground targets in the P-51, where a single rifle or pistol shot could bring the airplane down.

Today, the P-51 is considered one of the most prestigious of all warbirds.  It is sleek, fast, and sounds as beautiful as any aircraft that has ever flown.  We are thrilled that so many have been restored to flying condition over the past decades so that they can be enjoyed by so many at airshows and fly-ins.

 

North American P-51 Specifications:

Nickname: "Mustang," "Fifty-One," "Little Friend"

Engine: Packard Merlin V-1650, V-12 cylinder, 1650 hp

Wing Span: 37 ft. Length: 32 ft, 9 in. Height: 13 ft, 8 in.

Weight: Empty: 7,125 lbs.. Max Take-Off: 12,100 lbs.

Maximum Speed: 437 mph

Service Ceiling: 41,900 ft.

Range: 1300 miles

Crew: One

Number Built: 15,000+

Flying Today: Approximately 200

 

 

 

 

 PT-17 Stearman
 BT-13 Valiant
 AT-6 Texan
 P-51 Mustang
 P-47Thunderbolt
 P-38 Lightning
 B-25 Mitchell
 F4U Corsair
 F6F Hellcat
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