#bellp39

[destinationsjourney]

Bell Airacobra I in RAF service

The Bell Airacobra fighters delivered to the Royal Air Force were essentially the same as P-39D aircraft, with the 37 mm cannon replaced by a 20 mm and the addition of armour plating, bulletproof glass and self sealing fuel tanks. This additional weight caused a reduction in speed of 30 mph, making it inferior to most existing RAF and Luftwaffe fighters.

As a result of the poor performance most of the ordered was passed on to Russia or used by USAAF as the P-400. Only 601 Squadron operated the type in the RAF. This squadron only flew one operational mission, against coastal barges along the French coast on 9 October 1941.

More photos here.

[destinationsjourney]

Bell P-39 Airacobra in RAAF Service - Destination's Journey

The Bell P-39 Airacobra was operated by the RAAF from mid 1942 until the end of 1943 when were advanced fighters became available