The Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, an icon of World War II aviation, not only served across multiple theaters but also became a symbol of Allied tenacity against Axis powers. This versatile fighter, emerging from the Curtiss-Wright Corporation’s storied “Hawk” lineage, held the skies from the early days of the war until more advanced aircraft took the lead.
When the United States entered WWII, the P-40 was its most prolific fighter available in significant numbers. The aircraft first roared into combat during the surprise Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and in the Philippines in December 1941. Despite the P-40’s initial setbacks, including many being destroyed on the ground due to surprise attacks, the few that soared into the sky showed their mettle. Notably, 2nd Lt. George S. Welch engaged the Japanese with a P-40 and shot down four enemy aircraft.
The Warhawk is perhaps best remembered for its association with the American Volunteer Group (AVG), famously known as the Flying Tigers. Under the command of Colonel Claire Lee Chennault, these shark-mouthed fighters became a symbol of American volunteerism and skill. Despite operating at the end of a precarious supply line, the AVG achieved remarkable success against Japanese forces. From their first mission on December 20, 1941, the Flying Tigers went on to shoot down 286 enemy aircraft over six months.
As the war progressed, various models of the Warhawk were introduced. The P-40B, with its self-sealing tanks and additional armament, and the P-40C, further improved with armor, demonstrated the fighter’s evolution in response to combat demands.
The P-40 also played a crucial role in other theaters, serving in North Africa and the Middle East. The British Commonwealth and Soviet air forces used the name Tomahawk for models equivalent to the P-40B and P-40C, and the name Kittyhawk for models equivalent to the P-40D and all later variants.
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