BELL P-39D Airacobra #5746

The Bell P-39D Airacobra was a single-engine fighter aircraft produced by Bell Aircraft for the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. It was one of the principal American fighters in service when the United States entered combat. The P-39 was used by the Soviet Air Force, and enabled individual Soviet pilots to collect the highest number of kills attributed to any U.S. fighter type flown by any air force in any conflict. Other major users of the type included the Free French, the Royal Air Force, and the Italian Co-Belligerent Air Force.

The P-39D was an improved version of the P-39C, with a more powerful engine, additional armor, and a revised armament layout. The 37mm cannon was moved from the nose to the wing, and the 7.62mm machine guns were increased from two to four. The P-39D also had a revised cockpit with better visibility.

The P-39D was a capable fighter, but it was not without its flaws. It had a limited range, and its performance at high altitudes was poor. However, it was very maneuverable at low altitudes, and its 37mm cannon made it a formidable ground attack aircraft.

The P-39D was produced from 1941 to 1944, and a total of 3,923 were built. It was retired from US service in 1944, but it continued to be used by the Soviet Air Force until 1945.

Here are some of the key features of the Bell P-39D Airacobra:

• Engine: Allison V-1710-35 (E5) 1150 hp
• Armament: 1 x 37mm cannon, 4 x 7.62mm machine guns
• Top speed: 368 mph
• Range: 580 miles
• Service ceiling: 28,000 ft

The P-39D was a versatile aircraft that was used for a variety of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance. It was a valuable asset to the Allied forces during World War II, and it played a significant role in the defeat of the Axis powers.