|
North American P51D Mustang
North American P51D Mustang The American built Mustang was one of the most potent and versatile fighters produced during World War II, operating in roles as varies as long range escort and close air support.
|
The American built Mustang was one of the most potent and versatile fighters produced during World War II, operating in roles as varied as long range escort and close air support.
The Mustang was first flown in 1940 with an Allison engine, which, although satisfactory at lower altitude, was less than efficient above 15,000 feet due to its single-stage super-charger.
Installing a two-stage Merlin engine in the airframe during 1942 proved a winning combination, and this transformation turned the fighter into one that could equal or outperform any other aeroplane in the sky at the time.
Operated by the RAF as well as the USAAF, the Mustang proved to be the best escort fighter available because of its comparatively economical engine and generous internal fuel capacity which enabled it to accompany American bombers all the way to Berlin and back.
The RNZAF requested 370 examples of the Mustang in the closing stages of World War II as replacements for the Corsair, but when the war ended, the order was cancelled.
The 30 Mustangs already shipped were stored until the early 1950's when they became operational with the Territorial Air Force.
 |
| About this Example |
|
| Photo Album | Inside the P51D Mustang's Cockpit |
 |
| © NZFPM |
|
 |
| © NZFPM |
|
This particular aircraft never saw war service. It was built at the Inglewood factory of North American Aviation and put on a ship bound for the Middle East on 18 April 1945. However, the ship returned to the USA with 420 on board and it was offloaded on 20th July 1945.
In February 1947 this aircraft was assigned to the 190th Fighter Squadron at Boise, Idaho, remaining with various Air National Guard Units (the American Territorial Air Force) before passing into the hands of an American collector.
Purchased jointly by Tim Wallis and Brian Hore in 1993, it arrived in early 1994, was reassembled and flew for the first time in ten years just prior to that Warbirds over Wanaka airshow.
It was converted into a dual control two seater, the second person sitting where the wartime fueltank and radio gear was mounted.
|
| Departure Notes |
|
The aircraft left the collection in 2004. It is now owned by Jack Croull of Chino, USA, and has been completely refurbished.
| Photo Album | North American P51D Mustang |
 |
| © NZFPM |
|
 |
| © NZFPM |
|
 |
| © NZFPM |
|
 |
| © NZFPM |
|
|
|
| Specification and Profile |
|
| Length: | 32' 3" |
| Height: | 12' 2" |
| Wingspan: | 37' |
| Empty Weight: | 7,010.4 lb |
| Gross Weight: | 10,500 lb |
| Maximum Speed: | 505 mph |
| Service Ceiling: | 41,900 ft |
| Range: | 950 miles |
| Powerplant: | One Rolls Royce Packard V-1650-7 Merlin 1,490 hp 12 cylinder V12 inline |
| Armament: | Six 0.50 calibre machine guns |
| External: | Two 1,000 lb bombs or drop tanks |
|  |
| 
