The Bell P-39 Airacobra is a fighter 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, often referred to as the “Iron Dog,” was a much maligned USAAF WWII fighter, so much so that it is not included in the U.S. Air Force Academy’s “Fighter Memorial”.

Apr 1, 2019 · It was the P-39 Airacobra. The majority of those aces were Russian pilots. Of Aleksander I Pokryshkin’s 59 victories, 48 of them were scored in a P-39. Gregoriy Rechkalov, Russia’s top ace, shot down 56 kills in a P-39. A total of 4,719 P-39s were sent to the Soviet Union through Lend Lease.

Jun 15, 2021 · The P-39 Airacobra officially entered combat while the US forces were in New Guinea. The mission for the Allies was to defend Australia, and Gen. Douglas MacArthur drew the battle line across New Guinea.

Apr 6, 2011 · P-39 Airacobra fighters (specifically, P-39D variant) saw their first combat against the Japanese over New Guinea island, with pilots of 8th Fighter Group in the cockpits.

The P-39 Airacobra made by Bell Aircraft Corporation was produced from 1939 until 1944. It might be called the most controversial U.S. fighter of the Second World War. Embraced by the Soviet Union, shunned by the Western Allies and hounded by …

Mar 11, 2015 · Capable of reaching a respectable speed of 386 mph, when piloted by skilled aviators, the P-39 Airacobra could keep up with the best. Russian aces certainly loved the airplane, and one of them shot down 60 German aircraft while at the controls of a P-39!

The P-39 Airacobra was a unique fighter aircraft developed by Bell Aircraft Corporation and used primarily by the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) during World War II. It was notable for its innovative design features, including a mid-mounted engine and tricycle landing gear, and was used in various combat roles, primarily as a ground ...

Sep 5, 2024 · During the pivotal Battle of Kursk in 1943, the largest tank battle in history, the P-39 played a crucial role in supporting Soviet ground forces. Its low-altitude combat prowess and tank-busting 37mm cannon made it an ideal aircraft for strafing and destroying German armor.

The P-39N and P-39Q were built for the Russian air force under the Lend-Lease military assistance program, and 4,773 Airacobras were delivered to Russia by American and Russian ferry pilots. Seven P-39s were designated as the F2L and used as US Navy target drones.