P-43a Lancer

The P-43A Lancer was primarily used by the Chinese Air Force and the American Volunteer Group (AVG) "Flying Tigers" in China for high-altitude reconnaissance and limited interception missions against Japanese forces from 1941 to 1943. It was also used in the U.S. for training and domestic defense. 
 
Key Operational Usage Details:
China & CBI Theater: The majority of P-43A/A-1 models (125+ units) were sent to China via Lend-Lease. Due to a lack of self-sealing fuel tanks, they were rarely used in dogfights, instead acting as high-altitude interceptors and photo-reconnaissance planes to counter Japanese Ki-46 "Dinah" aircraft.
Flying Tigers/AVG: Although initially considered for fighter duties, the AVG used them largely as stopgap, long-range reconnaissance aircraft because of their, at the time, superior high-altitude performance.
U.S. Army Air Forces (USAAF): Early models were used by the 1st, 14th, and 55th Pursuit Groups for training and defense until replaced by faster types like the P-38.
Performance Note: Pilots appreciated the high-altitude capabilities (reaching 44,000 ft) but found the aircraft vulnerable to fire. 
 
The type was effectively retired from frontline service by the end of 1943.