The North American A-36, a variant of the famed P-51 Mustang, was known for its role as a dive bomber aircraft during World War II. Developed by North American Aviation, the A-36 boasted a reinforced airframe, dive brakes, and the power of an Allison V-1710-87 engine. These modifications allowed it to execute precision ground-attack missions effectively. Operating in the European, Mediterranean, and North African theaters, it earned a reputation for its accuracy and ability to deliver a variety of ordnance, including bombs and machine gun fire, with devastating effect.

Affectionately called the “Apache” by some, though never officially named, the A-36 achieved success through a combination of agility in the dive and potent firepower, including six .50 caliber M2 Browning machine guns. This firepower, coupled with the skill of its pilots, helped the A-36 serve as an impactful tactical support aircraft during the critical war years. Despite being overshadowed by its more famous relative, the P-51 Mustang, which excelled in air superiority, the A-36 carved its niche as a formidable ground-attack platform.

Development And Production

The A-36 development marked a significant shift from the P-40 to a more advanced dive bomber, owing to North American Aviation’s expertise and the innovative design origins of the P-51 Mustang. Production numbers reflected the urgency and efficiency of this transition during a time of war.

Design Origins

The A-36, also known as the “Apache,” originated from the P-51 Mustang’s design. Specifically, it was a dive bomber variant of the earlier Mustang models. Edgar Schmued, the chief designer at North American Aviation, played a crucial role in crafting the fighter that would evolve into the A-36.

North American Aviation’s Role

North American Aviation (NAA), based at the Inglewood plant, spearheaded the development of the A-36. The project was a strategic move to maintain production momentum and leverage the existing design of the P-51. At this juncture, General Oliver P. Echols, a key fighter project officer, was influential in facilitating the A-36’s production.

Transition from P-40 to A-36

The United States Army’s transition from the Curtiss P-40 to the A-36 represented a leap in fighter bomber capabilities. The P-40, though a sturdy and reliable aircraft, was beginning to be outclassed by newer models. The A-36 with its Allison V-1710 engine offered a superior range and versatility.

Production Numbers

NAA’s efficiency in manufacturing translated into significant production numbers for the A-36. By March 1943, the company had completed a total of 500 A-36 aircraft. This rapid production was critical during World War II, ensuring that there was no delay in delivering advanced aircraft to meet combat needs.

Technical Specifications

The A-36 boasted robust technical features designed for dive bombing, with a focus on a powerful engine, significant bomb load, and reinforced airframe to withstand the stresses of dive bombing.

Airframe and Wings

The structure of the A-36 incorporated a reinforced airframe to endure the rigors of dive-bombing missions. The wingspan measured 37 feet, providing stability and lift. Integral to its dive-bombing capability were the distinctive rectangular, slatted dive brakes located above and below the wings, which helped to control the aircraft’s speed during steep dives.

Engine and Performance

Powered by an Allison V-1710-87 liquid-cooled inline piston engine, the A-36 generated a substantial 1,325 horsepower. This engine enabled a maximum speed of around 365 mph, a range reaching up to 550 miles, and a service ceiling of 25,098 feet. The balance between speed and power reflected in these figures made it a formidable ground-attack aircraft.

Armament and Bomb Load

A-36’s armament included 6 .50 cal M2 Browning machine guns, offering potent firepower in both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. For its ground-attack role, it was equipped with bomb racks allowing it to carry a bomb load for precise targeting during dive-bombing sorties. The weight of ordnance the aircraft could carry, combined with its armament, gave it a significant punch against ground targets.

Operational History

The A-36, a variant of the legendary P-51 Mustang, carved out its niche in WWII history through its successful adaptation for ground-attack roles. Known for its dive-bombing precision, the aircraft’s combat service extended across various theatres, participating in key battles and being flown by several notable pilots.

Combat Service

The A-36, operational with the U.S. Army Air Forces (USAAF), saw extensive combat primarily in the Mediterranean and North African campaigns. The aircraft, adapted from the P-51 Mustang and known as the North American A-36 Apache, earned a reputation for its effectiveness in the ground attack role. It was equipped with bomb racks and could operate at a service ceiling sufficient to perform both dive bombing and low-level attack missions. Noteworthy is its service during the Allied invasion of Sicily, where it provided crucial air support.

Key Missions and Battles

The A-36 played a pivotal role in many missions, most notably in the Mediterranean Theater. One of its significant contributions was during the assault on Pantelleria, an island in the Mediterranean where Apaches assisted in softening enemy defenses leading up to the island’s surrender. Operating from bases like French Morocco, the 27th Fighter-Bomber Group utilized the A-36A Apaches effectively in dive-bombing and gunnery roles.

• Important Missions and Battles:
  • Assault on the island of Pantelleria
  • Mediterranean Theater operations
  • North African campaigns
  • Support for the Allied invasion of Sicily

Aces and Notable Pilots

While the A-36 was not typically associated with fighter aces, several skilled pilots made their mark with this aircraft. Distinguished pilots often transitioned from the A-36 to more advanced fighter models like subsequent versions of the Mustang. The A-36’s role in grooming pilots for future successes in higher-performance fighters was an invaluable aspect of its service. Notable groups like the RAF also flew the Mustangs, including A-36 variants, signifying its utility beyond American forces.

Variants and Related Models

The North American A-36 and the P-51 Mustang represent two connected yet distinct branches of World War II fighter aircraft development. While the A-36A was a dedicated dive bomber variant of the Mustang lineage, the various P-51 Mustang variants were primarily designed for fighter and escort roles, encompassing several improvements over the course of the war.

A-36A Apache

North American A-36A Apache, also known as the “Invader,” was a ground-attack aircraft famed for its dive-bombing capabilities. It served as the first US Army Air Forces version of the Mustang and included notable modifications such as dive brakes on each wing. The A-36A featured two 500 lb bomb hard points and was armed with a combination of nose and wing-mounted .50 caliber machine guns. North American Aviation produced 500 units of the A-36A variant, with production completed in March 1943.

P-51 Mustang Variants

The P-51 Mustang underwent several variant developments, each with their own set of improvements and roles:

• P-51A Mustang: This variant introduced the Allison V-1710 engine, known for better low-altitude performance and was equipped with four wing-mounted .50 caliber machine guns.
• P-51B/C Mustangs: These variants marked the transition to the more powerful Rolls-Royce Merlin engine, signifying a substantial increase in high-altitude performance.
• P-51D Mustang: The D variant became the most widely recognized, featuring a bubble canopy for better visibility and an enhanced armament of six .50 caliber machine guns.
• Following the P-51D, the P-51H was a high-speed variant that aimed to contend with jet fighters, though it saw little combat.
• The P-51 lineage also influenced the development of other aircraft, such as the P-47 Thunderbolt, through competition and technological exchange during the war.

Overall, the Mustang series including the A-36A Apache, played pivotal roles in the air war effort, showing the adaptability and progressive improvements of fighter aircraft design during World War II.

End of Service and Legacy

The North American A-36, renowned for its ground-attack capabilities, was phased out of service by the end of World War II, leaving a mark on aviation history through its limited number of surviving aircraft and its influence on later aircraft designs.

Retirement and Surviving Aircraft

Retirement: The A-36 was officially retired from active service by the U.S. Army after a brief but impactful service period during World War II. A limited number of airframes remained and some were deployed in secondary roles like training within the U.S. such as with the Minnesota Air National Guard before being ultimately scrapped or otherwise lost to time.

Surviving Aircraft: Today, few A-36s exist, with notable examples preserved in museums and private collections. The National Museum of the United States Air Force and the Collings Foundation are among the institutions that harbor these rare aircraft. Baby Carmen and Screaming Helldiver are among the known names of the surviving A-36s, echoing their historical significance as hardy ground-attack planes nicknamed “Apache” in service.

Influence on Later Designs

Building on the lessons learned from the A-36’s dive-bombing performance, subsequent aircraft designs incorporated improved airframe strength and armament configurations. The A-36’s dive flaps and the overall success of its missions influenced the design philosophy of future tactical aircraft despite the model’s short service ceiling. The pioneering work of the A-36 and its sibling, the P-51 Mustang, can be seen in the lineage of fighter-bomber aircraft that followed, reflecting the A-36’s legacy as a bridge between fighter and later dedicated ground-attack aircraft.

Cultural and Historical Impact

The A-36, a notable World War II aircraft, primarily achieved its renown through its military application and its varied representation in media.

Military Significance

The North American A-36, often referred to as the Apache and also known as the Mustang I in Britain, was a ground-attack aircraft that served with distinction during World War II. It was a derivative of the P-51 Mustang, designed for dive bombing. This aircraft saw extensive use by the United States Army Air Force (USAAF), particularly in the Mediterranean, as it could deliver precise strikes against enemy fortifications and troop concentrations. Its capabilities were further enhanced by armament that included six .50 cal M2 Browning machine guns, allowing it to provide support in various combat scenarios. The A-36 played a critical role in the tactical air support that helped the Allied forces achieve victory on several key fronts.

Representation in Media

The A-36 Apache has been commemorated and showcased in various forms of media, contributing to its cultural legacy. While its more famous counterpart, the P-51 Mustang, often overshadows it, the A-36 has earned its place in war museums, such as the American Heritage Museum in Rosemount, Minnesota, where it is celebrated for its engineering and contributions. Documentaries and historical literature surrounding World War II aviation frequently include the A-36, highlighting its unique role and contributions to the air battles of the war. The aircraft has also made appearances in historical fiction, and its presence in these narratives serves to keep the history of the A-36 alive for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section provides answers to common inquiries about the A-36 Apache, offering insights into its unique aspects, wartime performance, comparison with the P-51 Mustang, operational history, distinct features compared to its contemporaries, and its notable combat achievements.

What are the distinctive features of the A-36 Apache?

The A-36 Apache, a ground-attack/dive bomber variant of the early P-51 Mustang, is characterized by its slatted dive brakes located above and below the wings which facilitated accurate bomb deployment during dives.

How did the A-36 Apache perform in World War II?

During World War II, the A-36 Apache proved very effective against ground targets, serving primarily in the Mediterranean and China and engaged in combat operations mainly in the years 1943 and 1944.

Can you compare the A-36 Apache with the P-51 Mustang?

The A-36 Apache is similar to the P-51A Mustang in aerodynamics and design, but it differentiates itself primarily through the addition of dive brakes and its role as a dedicated dive bomber as opposed to the P-51’s role as a long-range fighter.

What is the operational history of the A-36 Apache during its service?

The A-36 Apache was employed from 1943 to 1944, playing a significant role in the Mediterranean Theater of Operations (MTO) and in China, with the U.S. Army Air Forces valuing its precision in ground attacks.

How does the A-36 Apache differ from other aircraft in its class?

As a variant of the P-51 Mustang designed specifically for dive bombing missions, the A-36 stood out from other aircraft in its class with its dive brakes and the ability to deploy bombs with pinpoint accuracy, a feature not commonly found in fighter-bombers of the era.

What are the notable combat achievements of the A-36 Apache?

The A-36 Apache achieved recognition for its effectiveness in ground attack roles during World War II, contributing to the allied air superiority with its successful missions targeting enemy fortifications, communication lines, and troop concentrations.