Originally posted by halcyon
What do you think would happen if four people stole working P-51Ds, loaded the .50 cals with live ammo, and started strafing residental areas?
First, you're going to have to show me an airworthy P51 with working guns. I believe (although someone might prove me wrong) that all Civilian owned warplanes have disabled guns (such as barrels fake or filled up with lead).
I can't think of a vintage bird I have ever seen that had any working weapons at all. And I'm 99% certain its VERY illegal to have one with functional arms.
Anyhow, that not withstanding, about 3 years ago the Brazillian Airforce showed just how easy it is to shoot down a plane without using a missle when they drilled a Cessna 182 full of 20mm cannon fire from one of their jet fighters.
I have to imagine the P51 would be an easier target since its moving at a more compatible speed.
P51 theives die without any kills against the modern airforce.
Casualties on the ground... unknown. Too many variables to predict.