P-47 Thunderbolt

The P-47, also known as the “Jug”, was a large, high-performance fighter/bomber during World War II. It played an important role in assisting the Allies in Europe during the war and was considered the greatest heavy single-engine fighter constructed during that time. The P-47’s superior qualities in combat, speed and heavy fire power made it a fine escort and ground attack bomber. After the war it continued to serve for many additional years with the air forces of over 15 nations around the world.
The Republic P-47 Thunderbolt became one of the best all around fighters of WWII and was produced in greater numbers than any other American fighter of the war.

Image Description:  The Republic P-47 Thunderbolt became one of the best all around fighters of WWII and was produced in greater numbers than any other American fighter of the war.


FACTS & STATS:

First Flown
1941
Range		 1,900 miles (3,059 km)
Length 36 ft 1 in (11 m)
Engine One Pratt & Whitney 2,000 hp turbo-charged R-2800-59 twin-row radial engine
Wingspan 40 ft 9 in (12.43 m)
Max Speed 433 mph (697 kmh)
Ceiling 41,000 ft (12,497 m)
Weight

Empty: 9,950 lb (4,513 kg);
Loaded: 17,500 lb (7,938 kg)
Number Built

15,686
Armament

Eight .50 cal wing-mounted machine guns; up to 2,500 lb (1,134 kg) of bombs or rockets



P-47 Thunderbolts were first used as fighter escorts for B-17s and B-24s by the 8th Army Air Force.
Image Description: P-47 Thunderbolts were first used as fighter escorts for B-17s and B-24s by the 8th Army Air Force.
The P-47 Thundbolt was used as a fighter for the US Air Force in the European theater. A later version was used as an escort plane and fighter-bomber over Europe.
Image Description: The P-47 Thundbolt was used as a fighter for the US Air Force in the European theater. A later version was used as an escort plane and fighter-bomber over Europe.