World Models P-82 Twin Mustang
The P-82 Twin Mustang was essentially two P-51 Mustangs joined together to provide longer range as well as versatility as a fighter, escort, reconnaissance, attack bomber, or interceptor. The purpose of having two pilots was as a relief against fatigue on the long overwater missions. The co-pilot could also act as a radar operator since the P-82G version carried a giant centerline pod radar system for night fighting. Although the first P-82 flight was in 1945, they were ordered too late to see much action in WWII.
The P-82 was the first US aircraft to operate over Korea and destroy an enemy plane. Speeds of up to 460mph could be obtained at 21,000'. The plane had a ceiling of 38,900' and a range of 2240 miles. Armaments included six wing-mounted machine guns and either up to four 1,000lb bombs or up to four auxiliary fuel tanks.
In June of 1948, the P-desination was changed to F, and the Twin Mustang became an F-82. They spent a brief life flying alongside B-29s and were replaced by jets in 1950. The last Twin Mustang was retired from service in mid-1953.
For more information on the P-82 Twin Mustang, visit the [link=http://www.boeing.com/history/bna/p82.htm]North American History[/link] section of Boeing's on-line library.