05.05.2009, 16:31
Kill ratios for the P-40 varry depending on unit, air force, etc. However, the best statistic available is 23.8/1 for the AVG. The statistics on the AVG varry for exact losses but using the USAAF records available here: http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/factshe...sp?id=1354, they had 286 kills for 12 losses for either MIA or KIA. To better that account, there were four confirmed deaths of AVG pilots in combat. Using that statistic, the ratio jumps to 71.5/1. If you want even better, the AVG got 297 kills including ground plane kills. I won't use these numbers because it seems kind of cheap to do so. Now, back to topic...
I did more reasearch on the XP-40Q, it turns out that it's maneuverability is as good the Spitfire IX (skeptics, please see quotes above). The Spit IX had only 409mph and the P-51D had 437mph for top speeds. The XP-40Q had 422mph top speed (15mph less than the P-51 and 13mph more than the Spit). The XP-40Q had a range of around 1,400 miles while the P-51 had a range of around only 1,000 miles. I think this is basically a P-51 and Spitfire child. Mixed speed, very good range, good altitude (finally), uber good maneuverability, and excellent looks. The only reason that I can find anywhere for not producing it was that it was slightly slower than the P-51 and P-47. It makes sense, the USAAF already had two good planes going for them that handeled their needs, why would they need another. Same reason the P-38K died. Can we please get the XP-40Q from somebody... 8)
Edit:
I'm sorry, I don't mean to beg so much. It's just that I love planes in general and I love this one for the reasons listed above. I just get excited. :oops:
I did more reasearch on the XP-40Q, it turns out that it's maneuverability is as good the Spitfire IX (skeptics, please see quotes above). The Spit IX had only 409mph and the P-51D had 437mph for top speeds. The XP-40Q had 422mph top speed (15mph less than the P-51 and 13mph more than the Spit). The XP-40Q had a range of around 1,400 miles while the P-51 had a range of around only 1,000 miles. I think this is basically a P-51 and Spitfire child. Mixed speed, very good range, good altitude (finally), uber good maneuverability, and excellent looks. The only reason that I can find anywhere for not producing it was that it was slightly slower than the P-51 and P-47. It makes sense, the USAAF already had two good planes going for them that handeled their needs, why would they need another. Same reason the P-38K died. Can we please get the XP-40Q from somebody... 8)
Edit:
I'm sorry, I don't mean to beg so much. It's just that I love planes in general and I love this one for the reasons listed above. I just get excited. :oops: