Republic P-47 Thunderbolt
Technical Information

Background
The P-47 Thunderbolt was hailed by pilots as on of the most rugged and durable fighter aircraft. Its heavy weight allowed it to dive at incredible speeds, and its large radial engine was able to absorb damage which made it well suited for ground attack. Armed with eight .50 browning caliber machine guns and could carry considerable bombs and even rockets.

Production
Built at two locations. First at Farmingdale, NY identified by the "-RE" suffix.

A second plant, Indiana Division of Republic Aviation was opened at Evansville, IN identified by the "-RA" suffix. The factory produced its first plane, P-47D "Hoosier Spirit" 42-22250 completed on September 20, 1942. A total of 6,242 were built at the factory, plus spare parts for 1,560. Also, Republic also operated the Evansville Modification Center in Evansville, IN. Thanks to Kenneth Wilson for additional information.

Also, the Curtis-Wright Company in Buffalo, NY built 300 Thunderbolts under contract, but none of these left the United States for overseas service.

Technical Details
Crew  One (pilot)
Engine  Pratt & Whitney R-2800 driving four-bladed metal propeller
Span  40' 9"
Length  36' 2"
Height  14' 8"
Maximum Speed  433 mph
Range  1,030 miles
Armament  8 x 50 Caliber machine gun
Bomb Load  2,500 lbs bombs or drop tanks or rockets