Aircraft: Lockheed P-38G-10 (1943)

DD_Fenrir · June 23, 2012

Name: Lockheed P-38G-10 (1943)

Date Added: 23 June 2012 - 20:57 PM

Short Description: Designed by the renowned Clarence Kelly the innovative P-38 was originally conceived as a long range bomber interceptor. Powered by two Allison V-1710-51/55 V-12 powerplants and run in conjunction with improved General Electric B-13 turbo-superchargers the P-38G-10 was one of the fastest Allied fighters at altitude during it's operational tenure. The -10 was not only was a formidable interceptor but with hardpoints now capable of carrying up to 1600lb bombs or, for the first time, fitted with M10 'Bazooka' tubes (wiring looms having been installed in modified and strengthened wings for this new load carrying capability) could now punch well above it's weight in the ground attack role.Fast and surprisingly manoueverable for it's size - thanks to counter rotating props that minimized torque - and with a heavy forward firepower complemented by excellent forward visibility the P-38s had only two real drawbacks; the first was an aerodynamic flaw inherent to the design that made the aroplane susceptible to compressability earlier than many contemporary fighters. Later marks would have dive flaps to counter this phenomenon. The 2nd was the poor high altitude performance and reliability in the ETO where a combination of climatic conditions (particularly cold & damp), engine coolant system not upgraded with the engines sufficently to cope with the extra heat developed, poor aircrew and groundcrew training on best management & maintainence of the powerplants & a related lack of ultimate ceiling as a result of all these factors took their toll on the apparent usefulness of the machine in that theatre. However, in the Mediterranean and particularly in the PTO the -38 was in much demand and when flown to it's strengths a formidable and dangerous opponent.

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