Tag: North American

North American F 82 Twin Mustang

Introduction

The North American F-82 Twin Mustang was designed after the North American P-51 Mustang which was a long range fighter-escort from World War II. The War ended before the F-82 units could be organized, but the post-War needs were still there as a new adversary came foth–the Soviet Union.

The original designation of the P82 now became the F-82 for “Fighter”as the design was for the F-82 to be a long range escort. It was to be a replacement for the Northrup P-61 Black Widow as an all weather day/night interceptor. Although it “missed” World War Ii, it was used in the Korean War. It was the first United States Air Force (USAFF) aircraft to operate over Korea and the first to down 3 North Korean aircraft, the first to be a Yak-11.

There were 272 F-82s Twin Mustang produced

F-82 Twin Mustang

Continue reading “North American F 82 Twin Mustang”

North American P-51 Mustang

P51-Mustang #05Introduction

The North American P-51 Mustang was a single engined, long rage fighter/escort that was used also as a single engine bomber during World War II.

In the early days of the Korean conflict, the P-51 Mustang was the primary fighter in the United Nations arsenal.  Then came the jet fighter age and the P-51 was used in a utility role such as recon aircraft, night fighter and other specialty roles.

Continue reading “North American P-51 Mustang”

North American F-86 Sabrejet

 

Introduction

The North American F-86 Sabre Jet was America’s first swept wing fighter and used in combat during the Korean War (1949-1953). The F-86-E was pitted against the high performing USSR MIG 15.

Initially it was said that at outbreak of the war, the pilots were Soviets due to the inexperience of the North Korean and Chinese pilots. Before long however, the MiGs were piloted with Chinese and North Koreans.

Much of the dog fighting took place in what was called “MiG Alley” over the Yalu River near the North Korean and Chinese border.

Early estimates (right after the war) showed the Sabre held a 10:1 kill ratio. In later years the ratio was said to be closer to 2:1.

However the numbers seem to favor the first ratio as 792 MiGs were counted as shot down and U.S. losses of Sabres were 78.

There were 41 American pilots that were honored as “ACE” status (5 shoot downs).

Continue reading “North American F-86 Sabrejet”