P-40 Warhawk - Planes of Fame

Curtiss P-40 Warhawk

This P-40 Warhawk has British markings. The British were buying Warhawks from the United States during WWII, even before the U.S. entered the war. It is painted in desert camouflage because P-40 Warhawks were sent to North Africa. The twin letters on the side of the plane designated the squadron and the single letter to the left designated the individual airplane. The United States used P-40 Warhawks at Pearl Harbor, in North Africa, China, the South Pacific, and the Philippines.

The photo shows the cowling removed to reveal the Allison V-1710 liquid-cooled engine, and dust (sand) filters below the engine. These dust filters were critical to keep the plane's carburetor clean in desert operations. When the cowling is in place, the shark mouth (also known as the tiger mouth by the American volunteer group in China), can be seen. A few of the teeth are visible in this photo on the fuselage. This is a rare instance in the American Army where the nose art was adopted by the entire fighter group. Photos taken at Planes of Fame Air Museum in Chino, CA.

Also see:
Miss Josephine - Palm Springs Air
P-40 WarhawK - War Eagles Air Museum
P-40 Warhawk - American Aircraft