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Description:
The P-39Q aircraft was a fighter plane introduced into the Italian Air Force during World War II,
after the treaty of 1943.
The Airforce received 75 P-39Q e 74 P-39N-1, with the N-1 version designed for mainly training, assigned to the 3 groups of the 4th fighter squadron.
Developed by the Bell Aircraft Corporation, it was known for its innovative design with the engine positioned behind the pilot and the primary armament mounted in the nose.
The P-39Q was powered by a 12-cylinder V-type Allison V-1710 engine and was employed in various roles, including air combat and ground support. During its service with the Italian Air Force, the P-39Q participated in escort missions, patrols, and ground attack missions.
The first operational cycle of the P-39 took place from Lecce against ground targets in Albania and Montenegro, where it proved to be a powerful war machine. This type of aircraft was also distributed to the bombing and fighter school, which, by the end of the war, had at least 13 of them.
The aircraft was noted for its maneuverability and low-altitude flight capability. However, it was less effective at high altitudes compared to other contemporary fighters.
It was retired in 1947 and used as a trainer until the early 50’s.
Specifications
Flight capabilities:
- Lenght: 9,19 m;
- Height: 3,89 m;
- Wing surface: 19,80 mq;
- Wing span: 10,36 m;
- Empty weight: 2.425 kg;
- Max weight: 2.425 kg;
- Max speed: 605 km/h;
- Max range: 840 km.
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Armament
Main cannon: American Armament Corporation T9 da 37 mm
It also carried: two machine guns of 12,7mm calibre located in the engine cowling and another two 12,7mm MGs in the wings which equipped the “Q” variant or two 7,7mmg MGs for the “N” variant.
The addition of ventral points provided for additional fuel tanks or bombs.
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