A-36 Apache
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The A-36 Apache, a ground-attack variant of the P-51 Mustang, was primarily used by the US Army Air Force in the Mediterranean (North Africa, Sicily, Italy) and China-Burma-India (CBI) theaters during World War II. It served with the 27th and 86th Fighter-Bomber Groups from June 1943, specializing in dive-bombing and strafing ground targets.
Key areas of operation included:
- Mediterranean/North Africa/Italy: The 27th and 86th Fighter-Bomber Groups used the A-36 to support the invasion of Pantelleria, Sicily, and the Italian campaign.
- China-Burma-India (CBI) Theater: The 311th Fighter-Bomber Group operated the A-36 in this region for close air support.
- Operational Role: Known as the "Invader" or "Mustang" in addition to Apache, the aircraft was used for precision dive-bombing, strafing, and reconnaissance, featuring dive brakes to control speed during attacks.
Although effective in close air support, the A-36 was replaced by P-47s and P-51s by 1944.
