Originally posted by Canaris
Exactly, why couldnt we get the 38D or the 38H which have more unique characteristics than the 38L. It would be a lot more interesting if we had the 38D or the 38H.
Canaris
38D makes no sense since it never saw combat, despite what some folks claim.
P38G makes great sense as it was the first Lightning variant with over 1000 produced.
This is about double F production and more then double H production. The G was the first to get the reinforced wing that allowed for the ferry tanks and larger bomb loads.
Performance between the F, G and H was comparable so the G is the perfect compromise.
For what it's worth the 339th FS that intercepted Yammamoto were flying G models.
The most active 38 groups in Europe from 42 on, the 1st, 14th and 82nd flew a mix of Fs and Gs.
Same goes for the Pac 38 groups into early 44 when the got the Js and later Ls.
Bottom line is the G model is the best choice for an early 38.
Early J gives the longer range and better performance and was used extensively before the J-25 and L models arrived with the power boosted ailerons and dive flaps.
The G and J along with the L cover all the ground, both for folks who like early war birds in the MA and for scenario use
Dan/Slack