The 325th got a lot more "ink" than the P-40 groups that preceded it into North Africa, partly because the leadership was as colorful as the group's markings, and partly because the 325th continued to score in the air-to-air arena while the other groups were concentrated on air to group tasks. However, it is clear that the USAAF operated Warhawks were flown more aggressively than Commonwealth Kittyhawks and that they were a surprise to the JGs in N. Africa which saw P-40 series aircraft in terms of bull's eyes.
JtD, math aside, the P-40 like the P-36/Hawk 75 before it had well balanced controls, a very good roll rate at most speeds and a superior dive acceleration that resulted in an excellent zoom climb; an experienced P-40 driver could humiliate the average Spitfire or Hurricane (not to mention Mustang) pilot fairly easily if he knew what he was doing.
cheers
horseback
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08-11-2013, 07:07 PM
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