For you Jug fans...pretty interesting conclusions from this comparison report on the P-47 against the FW 190 (type not specified), Spitfire Mk IX, Mustang X (experimental model to test the Merlin engine), P-38F and Typhoon Ib. The P-47s used for this comparison were the P-47C (series not specificed) and the P-47D (series not specified).
Just a brief rundown on the conclusions. For full details, click on the link at the end of the post to read the report.
Just a little backround on this report. This is an addendum to "A.F.D.U (Air Fighting Development Unit) Report # 66" on the tactical trials of the P-47C, night flying trails and tactical trials against the FW 190. This addendum are the results of that trial. Again, I am just going to list the conclusions for this post. Many will find it rather interesting.
Again, let me state that the P-47 used for this report was the P-47C and the P-47D (though the D might be a typo since all other trials were using the C). While no specific version of the FW 190 is given, the report does list the weights used for the test. The Spitfire is a "Mk IX", the P-38 is a "F", Typhoon is a "Ib" and the Mustang was the experimental prototype to test the Merlin 65 in the Mustang.
Nightflying trials:
The P-47 shows too much exhaust glow to be suitable as a night fighter
P-47D vs. FW 190
General:
The FW 190 was flown by an experienced pilot of A.F.D.U, and the Thunderbolt by pilots of the U.S.A.A.F. The FW 190 was loaded as a fighter to 8,300 lbs., and the Thunderbolt to 13,140 lbs.
Conclusion:
The Thunderbolt can only evade the FW 190 successfully by diving; it is out-classed in the climb and general manoeuvrability, with the possible exception of combats at ground level.
P-47 vs. Spitfire Mk IX
Performance:
The initial acceleration from level flight of the Spitfire IX is better than that of the P-47. The maximum speeds at 20,000ft and 28,000ft. are approximately the same, but above 28,000ft the Spitfire Mk IX is slightly faster. The rate of climb of the Spitfire Mk IX is much higher than the P-47 at all heights up to 30,000ft., being the maximum at which the P-47 is flown. In zoom climb the performance of the P-47 is similiar to that of the Spitfire Mk IX over limited intervals. The P-47 is able to out-dive the Spitfire quite easily.
Manoeuvrability:
In rate of roll there is little difference to choose between the two aircraft, but in turning circles the Spitfire is superior to the heavier P-47. It was found that after four turns, the Spitfire IX could get on the tail of the P-47 and remain there.
P-47 vs. Typhoon IB
General:
As the Typhoon is a low altitude fighter, comparative trials were only carried out at heights up to 20,000ft. Above this height the P-47 has a considerably better performance than the Typhoon.
Performance:
Initial acceleration from level flight was found to be approximately equal for the two aircraft. The Typhoon was found to be faster at all heights up to 15,000ft. Above this height it was found to be only slightly faster than the P-47 up to 22,000ft. The Typhoon as a greater rate of climb up to 10,000ft, but between 10,000ft and 20,000ft., the P-47 has the advantage. In full throttle dives both aircraft are equal.
Manoeuvrability:
The P-47 was considered far superior in rate of roll to the Typhoon and at 20,000ft., proved itself slightly better in turning circles.
P-47 vs. Mustang X
Performance:
At heights below 27,000ft., the Mustang X is considerably faster than the P-47. At 27,000ft., the Mustang X is about 10mph faster and can accelerate away and maintain its lead fairly easily. Trials were not carried out above 27,000ft. The rate of climb of the Mustang is better than that of the P-47 at all heights up to 27,000ft. The Mustang has better initial acceleration in a dive and can maintain this lead in full throttle dives.
Manoeuvrability:
The rate of roll of the P-47 is considerably better than that of the Mustang. In rate of turn the two aircraft are practically identical.
P-47 vs. P-38F
Performance:
The initial acceleration of the two aircraft was found to be identical. At 20,000ft., the P-38F is 10-15mph faster than the P-47; at 24,000ft., the performance is approximately equal and above 25,000ft., the P-47 was superior about 10mph. The P-38F has a far better rate of climb than the P-47 and a much steeper angle of climb. In comparative dives there was nothing to choose between the two aircraft.
Manoeuvrability:
In turning circles the P-38F was slightly better, and was certainly able to turn so slowly in a climbing turn, especially to the right that the P-47 was unable to follow. When 'bounced' by the P-47 the P-38F was able to turn very sharply and accelerate much more quickly than the P-47.
Here is the opinion formed by the RAF pilot that flew the P-47 during these trials.
A) "It is essentially a high altitude fighter, ideally suited for dive and zoom tactics."
B) "The aircraft is virtually a flying destroyer, having 4 - .5 machine guns in each wing."
C) "The P-47 is far superior to the Kittyhawk for interception of enemy bombers over 22,000ft."
D) "This aircraft is comparable with the P-38 (Lockheed Lightning) and is much easier to manoevre. However, I would prefer the P-38 to the P-47"
Link to Report#66Pretty interesting and you Jug fans will note that even the guy that flew the P-47 during these trials preferred the P-38 over the Thunderbolt.
ack-ack
