The North American P-51 Mustang

    More than likely the most recognized aircraft of  WWII, the P-51 Mustang also happens to be one of the best fighter aircraft of the period. Combining awesome horsepower, deadly firepower and the cunning of US airmen the Mustang accounted for almost five thousand downed enemy aircraft. Not a small number by any measure.

    One of the P-51's roles during the war was to escort friendly bombers on bombing missions deep within enemy airspace over Germany. This escort is possible due to the extra fuel carried in external drop tanks. theses tanks would be dropped (hence the name) when engaging with the enemy to allow for better aerodynamics. External drop tanks isn't the only thing that makes this plane a great escort. It is also packing some incredible firepower. Six, yes six, .50 caliber machine guns collectively capable of spitting out 225 pieces of hot lead in only 5 seconds.

    The later versions of the P-51 starting at the B variant can accredit their excellent performance to their V-1650 Rolls Royce Merlin engine. This beast can pump out 1,695 horsepower allowing it to fly faster and higher than many other aircraft with a top speed of 436 mph (703Km/h) and a service ceiling of  41,899 ft. (12,771 meters)