The A-36 Apache was the
attack version of the P-51 Mustang. It first flew in Spetember of 1942.
The first combat action of the Apache was in June of 1943, attacking
the Mediterranean island of Pantelleria. The Apaches served for ground
attack and heavy bomber escort until they were replaced in 1944 by the
P-47 Thunderbolt. While being used in a limited scope, the A-36 is
credited with 84 enemy aircraft kills. One of the distinguishing
features of the A-36 are the dive brakes on the wing, pictured open in
the first photo.
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