Bell P-78B TwinCobra

[TomZ]

Bell P-78B TwinCobra



In an effort to prolong the life of the P-39 Airacobra Bell Aircraft Corporation in 1942 proposed to create a twinned version of this aircraft. Initially the USAAF did not show any interest but early 1943 they ordered 4 prototypes configured as long range night fighters as the XP-78 TwinCobra.



As the P-78 was made up of a lot of standard P-39 components, the first prototype flew in September 1943. After a short evaluation period 126 P-78As were ordered, followed by an order for 287 P-78B models which powered by a slightly more powerful engine.
The P-78 TwinCobra flew as a night fighter in both Europe and over the Pacific. The aircraft proved too slow however and in 1946 all P-78 had been retired.



TomZ

[Tophe]

Lovely!
The Soviet Russians tried to build such a Tvin-Aerokobra... but you succeeded where they failed, congratulations!

[Tophe]

Lovely!
The Soviet Russians tried to build such a Tvin-Aerokobra...

I confirm: see www.moderndrawings.jexiste.be/WW2Drawings/Files/2-Airplanes/Allies/2-USSR/01-Fighters/OI-2/OI-2.htm

[Dizzyfugu]

Very nice, I esp. like the main landing gear's adapted track. I'd like to see the underside of the model, for the wells' arrangement. 

[zenrat]

 

[kitnut617]

Oh Yes! a man after my own heart   

[NARSES2]

That is neat 

[b29r]

Very nice, Tom!  Super job 

[TheChronicOne]

Daaaamn!   Quite stupendous!!!  Sit it next to an F-82 at the model show...   

[kerick]

Nice work! Love it