The United States entered World War II unprepared. The nation had been in a period of isolationism since the conclusion of World War I. Adolph Hitler's conquests in Europe were not even enough to shake Americans out of this isolationist mood. Only the surprise attack by the Japanese on the American naval base in Pearl Harbor spurred Americans to
fully act. The formal declarations of war by the United States on Japan and Germany made plain, once and for all, that the American economy would now need to be transformed into what President Roosevelt had called the Arsenal of Democracy. The entire manufacturing industry was called upon to produce large amounts of advanced aircraft.
Seemingly overnight, American aircraft production was employing a staggering two million workers, producing over 125,000 aircraft. The United States with its technological skill, industrial might and diversity, designed and manufactured many different advanced aircraft. These are the aircraft that went on to shape history and became legends.
Higher, faster and farther than any previous bomber - while carrying a heavier payload. The B-17 also boasted ground breaking navigation and precision bombardment equipment that made it one of the first true heavy bombers with high efficiency and accuracy. ...
— it dominated Japanese opposition, shooting down 2,140 against a loss of 189. Its performance and dependability allowed great flight leaders like John Blackburn, John Smith, Marion Carl, Joe Foss, and Pappy Boyington to create legendary fighter squadrons. ...
Its role in the defense of the Pacific during the early years of the war has been minimized. The Warhawk was, in fact, a much better fighter than most observers believe. — it was the third most numerous US fighter. ...
The Douglas SBD Dauntless was sturdy enough for pilots to dive at a near-vertical 80 degrees! — featured "Swiss cheese" flaps -- dive brakes punched with 3-inch holes. These perforations reduced buffet on a dive and improved the braking effect -- so that it could achieve pinpoint accuracy. ...
The Corsair's distinctive sound, which earned it among the Japanese the nickname of "Whistling Death", was caused by the wing-root inlets for the engine air. — the F4U Corsair was one of the great fighters of World War II. One of those classics that captures your imagination. ...