North American P-51D Mustang

Arguably the most famous fighter of them all. Designed in 1940, the Mustang was originally developed in response to a British request to North America for a fighter aircraft. The first prototype flew just 102 days after the contract was signed. The first Mustang flew using the Allison V-1710 engine however, it was only when the Rolls-Royce and later Packard Merlin engines were installed did the Mustang reach its full potential. The Mustang remained in service during the Korean War with the USAF as the F-51 until they were retired in 1957. The Mustang however continued in service with numerous air forces around the world until the mid-1980s. This example, named Marinell, flew with the 504th Fighter Squadron for 45 days in which time it shot down two Me109s and two FW190s before it was shot down during August 1944 over France. 

Based at the nearby Cotswold Airport in Kemble, Marinell will be joining us to appear on static display as part of our ‘Fighter Meet’ theme.

Photo Credit: Peter Reoch