FIREPOWER SERIES CERTIFIED AIRCRAFT

Curtiss P-40N Warhawk

Based on the Curtiss P-36, which used an air-cooled radial, the XP-40 was first flown in October of 1938.  From this humble beginning came an aircraft that has become one of the most recognized fighter planes of World War II.  Almost everyone knows of the "Flying Tigers" who flew under General Claire Chennault, with their distinctive shark-mouth nose art and jutting, massive spinners.  It was this service that initially brought the P-40 to the public's attention, but the P-40 in fact flew in every theatre of war and gave a good accounting of itself, despite more modern opposition.

A rugged, attractive plane, the P-40 could take quite a lot of damage and still make it home.  And while it was considered to be the most maneuverable of the Army Air Force fighters by many pilots who flew the type, the Japanese fighters were lighter and could out-turn the heavy P-40.  But the Warhawk was faster and better-armed, and could easily leave the Japanese planes behind in a dive. 

Pilot Comments:

"The P-40's tactics were based on a quick slashing maneuver through bomber formations, hurling through at high speed, diving away, and then zoom-climbing back to altitude to do it all over again.  The Warhawk can give a fair accounting of itself against an Me 109 if well-flown, and is probably the more agile aircraft in a lower level dogfight.  But the Messerschmitts are faster at high altitude, where they own the sky.  It will take a very lucky or very skilled pilot to outfly an Me 109 at higher altitudes.  And if you see an Fw 190, best to get home and fly another day."

ABBREVIATED CHECKLIST

TAKEOFF (8354 lbs.)

Note: This aircraft has a substantial amount of torque roll; although the stall speed is quite low at 90 mph, and the craft will want to lift off sooner, hold the nose down and let flying speed build to at least 115 mph where the runway length allows.  This will allow you to gain aileron authority so as to minimize the roll when the aircraft lifts off.  A good deal of right rudder and aileron will be needed until climbing speed is reached.

CLIMBING

LANDING (7973 lbs.)

This aircraft tends to float in ground effect so the landing touchdown speed is very important to a short ground roll.  In crosswinds or on grass strips, wheel landings are preferable to three pointers.

Firepower Certified Specifications: