The Lockheed P-38 Lightning | Deadly versatility

The #Lockheed #P-38 #lightning is a twin-engine, twin-boom American #fighteraircraft that first flew in 1939 and played a pivotal role in #worldwar2 I. Designed by Clarence "Kelly" Johnson and Hal Hibbard, it was known for its distinctive shape and versatile capabilities, serving as an interceptor, ground-attack aircraft, night fighter, and even as a photo-reconnaissance plane. The P-38 had a top speed of 414 mph, was powered by two Allison V-1710 V-12 engines, and featured a unique tricycle landing gear system. Its armaments were concentrated in the nose, housing one 20mm cannon and four .50 caliber machine guns. Notable for its long range, it was especially effective in the Pacific theater. One of its most famous missions was the interception and downing of Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto's aircraft in 1943. A total of 10,037 P-38s were produced, and although it was phased out after the war, it remains an iconic symbol of American #aviation #history. #aviationhistory #militaryaviation #militaryaviationhistory