Bell P-39Q 44-3645

The Bell P-39Q Airacobra was a World War II-era fighter aircraft produced by the American manufacturer Bell Aircraft Corporation. It was a unique and innovative aircraft, primarily known for its unconventional design features. Here’s a description of the Bell P-39Q:

One of the most distinctive features of the P-39Q was its mid-engine placement. Unlike most fighter aircraft of its time, which had their engines located in the nose, the P-39Q had its engine, an Allison V-1710 liquid-cooled V-12 engine, situated behind the cockpit.
The aircraft featured a tricycle landing gear with a nosewheel, which allowed for better ground visibility during takeoff and landing. The cockpit was positioned forward of the engine, offering the pilot excellent visibility over the nose.

The P-39Q was armed with an impressive array of weaponry. It typically included a 37mm M4 cannon firing through the propeller hub, synchronized with the engine, along with various machine guns, such as .30-caliber and .50-caliber Browning M2 machine guns in the nose and wings. The P-39Q was known for its good maneuverability and high rate of roll, making it effective in dogfights. However, it was not as fast in level flight as some contemporary fighters. It had a top speed of around 386 mph (621 km/h).

The P-39Q was primarily used in the role of a fighter-bomber. It was equipped for ground-attack missions and could carry a variety of bombs and rockets under its wings.

**Service History:**

The P-39Q Airacobra saw service with several Allied air forces during World War II, including the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF), the Soviet Air Force, and the Free French Air Force
It was particularly notable for its service with the Soviet Union on the Eastern Front. The Soviets used the P-39Q extensively and found it well-suited for low-altitude combat.

While the P-39Q had its strengths, its mid-engine design limited its overall performance at higher altitudes compared to contemporary fighters like the P-51 Mustang and the Supermarine Spitfire. After World War II, the P-39Q Airacobra was largely retired from military service, but some examples continued to be used for various purposes, including air racing and civilian flying.

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