P-40 Warhawk

The P-40 was the United States’ best fighter available in large numbers when World War II began. P-40s engaged Japanese aircraft at Pearl Harbor and in the Philippines in December 1941. They also served with the famed Flying Tigers in China in 1942, and in North Africa in 1943 with the 99th Fighter Squadron, the first African American U.S. fighter unit.

The solid, reliable Warhawk was used in many combat areas — the Aleutian Islands, Italy, the Middle East, the Far East, the Southwest Pacific and some were sent to Russia. Though often slower and less maneuverable than its adversaries, the P-40 earned a reputation in battle for extreme ruggedness. It served throughout the war but was eclipsed by more capable aircraft. More than 14,000 P-40s were built, and they served in the air forces of 28 nations.

General Characteristics

Engine: Allison V-1710 of 1,150 hp
Maximum Speed: 362 mph
Range: 850 miles
Ceiling: 30,000 feet
Span: 37 ft, 4 in
Height: 12ft, 4 in
Weight: 9,100 pounds
Length: 31 feet, 9 in