P-47 Thunderbolt - [4K] - Central Coast Airfest 2024

Please enjoy our video on the P-47 Thunderbolt showcase at the 2024 Central Coast Airfest! In this video you will see two P-47 Thunderbolts, P-47G Snafu and P-47D Dottie Mae. Considering that there are only four P-47's in flying condition....this was definitely a treat!

The P-47 Thunderbolt, officially known as the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt, was a prominent American fighter aircraft used during World War II and the early Cold War years. It was one of the largest and heaviest fighters of its time, characterized by its distinctive bubble canopy, large wings, and powerful Pratt & Whitney R-2800 radial engine.

The P-47 was designed by Republic Aviation and first flew in 1941. It was developed as part of the U.S. Army Air Corps’ need for a high-speed, high-performance fighter to compete with other European aircraft. The Thunderbolt was intended primarily for air superiority but also proved to be an effective ground support aircraft.

With a top speed of approximately 433 mph and a service ceiling of 40,000 feet, the P-47 was heavily armed, typically with eight .50 caliber M2 Browning machine guns. It also had a rugged airframe that could sustain considerable damage and keep flying, which made it popular among pilots.

The P-47 saw extensive combat in both the European and Pacific theaters during World War II. It excelled in the roles of long-range escort missions, ground attack, and close air support. Notably, its large size and heavy build allowed it to carry a significant payload of bombs and rockets. Notable variants included the D model, which featured the iconic bubble canopy, improving visibility for pilots.

The Thunderbolt became renowned for its effectiveness in the Second World War, achieving over 6,000 aerial victories and earning a reputation for its performance and durability in combat.

After the war, the P-47 continued to see usage with foreign air forces and was used in various conflicts during the late 1940s and early 1950s, eventually being phased out as more advanced jet fighters became the norm.

The P-47 Thunderbolt is remembered as one of the most effective and versatile fighters of World War II. Its combination of speed, firepower, and durability allowed it to earn the respect of its pilots and adversaries alike, solidifying its place in military aviation history. Today, the Thunderbolt is celebrated and preserved in various museums and collections, reflecting its significant impact on aerial warfare.

Thank you for watching our video! As always, please let us know what you would like to see next!

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