TBF Avenger and other planes

[majorfailure]

Originally Posted by Furio

The B26 had a significant role in the last two years of war, particularly with the Ninth AF. In my opinion, it was a sort of “tactical Flying Fortress”, the best type allied had in this role, until the Invader became available. And in that role it would be perfectly suited for good old Il2. It would efficiently share the same overall scenario with the Typhoon, flying over Northern France, the Ardennes and Southern Germany, pounding the same targets.

Yes that would fit. And it would find its friends - I'd bet anyone that likes the A-20 would like the B-26. But I don't see the huge gap where this plane is missing, rather a small niche.

Originally Posted by Furio

The Whirlwind is – to my eyes – the most beautiful WWII type, but honestly it can be considered barely operational, with just 116 examples built, flown by two squadrons only and replaced by the Typhoon. Possibly, the best way to use it is as a starting point for an RAF ground attack pilot career, progressing to the Typhoon and Tempest. As said above, the Typhoon could happily share the same scenario with the B26…

Just an exercise in optimism!

And we have a I-185, with Idontknowhowlittle built, among others. I always thought a hypothetical souped up Whirly 1945/46 model would have been a perfect counter against the more realistic 1946 German planes. And given that most prop engines of that time enhanced their power by 1.5 to 2 in their carreres, a fully developed Peregrine with all the bells and whistles would be no more unrealistic as a few other planes IMHO.

[Furio]

Originally Posted by majorfailure

And we have a I-185, with Idontknowhowlittle built, among others. I always thought a hypothetical souped up Whirly 1945/46 model would have been a perfect counter against the more realistic 1946 German planes. And given that most prop engines of that time enhanced their power by 1.5 to 2 in their carreres, a fully developed Peregrine with all the bells and whistles would be no more unrealistic as a few other planes IMHO.

That’s because the I185 was a work of love, not the result of rational planning, and I’m grateful to the people that modelled it and shared it with us. Thanks, guys!
In my opinion, the real “what if Whirlwind” would have been a slightly scaled up machine: something around 10% would have sufficed to accommodate Merlin engines. Add four belt fed Hispanos and look what you have: same power and armament as the Mosquito, but smaller and single seat!