WW2 History: The Legendary US P-47 Thunderbolts In The European Theater

Today we dive into the fascinating history of the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt, an aircraft that, although often overshadowed by the P51 Mustang, left an indelible mark on the European theater. Affectionately known as the T Bolt or Jug, this formidable fighter earned its place in history thanks to its incredible firepower and durability in combat. The Thunderbolt didn't just excel in aerial combat. With a top speed of 686 kilometers per hour and a payload capacity that could carry up to 2500 lbs of bombs or 10/5 inch HVAR rockets, this aircraft became a fearsome fighter bomber on the battlefield. The P-47 was responsible for destroying 86,000 train cars, 9000 locomotives, 6000 armored vehicles and 68,000 Axis trucks. This capacity for mass destruction made it an essential weapon for Allied forces in Europe. But what really made the P47A beloved aircraft for its pilots was its uncanny ability to sustain damage and keep flying with a loss rate of just zero Point O 7 permission. The Thunderbolt was a flying tank. The most famous case is that of Lieutenant Bob Johnson, who survived an intense attack by a German ace, Oberstlautnant Egon Mayer, who emptied all his ammunition into Johnson's plane. Despite more than 200 bullet holes in its fuselage, Johnson's P-47 managed to return to base, demonstrating the incredible resilience of this plane. The legacy of the P-47 Thunderbolt lives on today, reminding us not only of the power of military technology but also of the unbreakable spirit of those who fought in it. From the skies of Europe to the pages of history, the Thunderbolt will stand as a testament to the resilience, strength, and ingenuity of Allied aviation. Thank you for flying with us and we'll see you in the next episode.