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Bell P-59A
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The Bell P-59A was the first operational jet used by the United States Army Air Force. Developed in 1944–1945, it featured a unique blend of British and American design influences. The United States Army Air Forces (USAAF) placed an order for 100, but when the General Electric J31 engine proved to be underperforming, this contract was cancelled and the type relegated to training duties. Eventually, only 20 P-59As were completed, their deliveries taking place in the autumn of 1944. This P-59A was operated by the 412th Fighter Group, home-based at Muroc Army Airfield, California, in 1945. The aircraft was nicknamed ‘Mystic Mistress’. (Artwork by Jean-Marie Guillou)
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