XP-50 | War Thunder

In 1939, the US Army issued Circular Proposal 39-775 for new fighters that could utilise new engines. Of the four companies that submitted designs, Grumman submitted Design 41, which was largely based on Design 34 (XF5F-1) but would utilise two Wright R-1820 radial engines. Although Lockheed’s design was deemed more favourable, the Army wanted Grumman to continue revising Design 41 as a backup in case Lockheed’s proposal ran into hiccups. Grumman’s resubmission, Design 45, was later given the designation XP-50. The XP-50 was fitted with two Wright R-1820-67/69 radial engines, which produced 1,200 hp with the help of turbosuperchargers. The XP-50 was promising in test flights until a turbosupercharger explosion led to the loss of the prototype and the project's cancellation. Introduced as a premium aircraft in Update 1.31, the XP-50 is an extremely capable aircraft. The XP-50 can reach heights well above enemy aircraft with ease. Although it is quite manoeuvrable, at higher speeds the XP-50 struggles with compression. Players must be careful when diving for opponents, especially given how quickly the XP-50 gains speed and the lack of airbrakes. The XP-50 also has two 20 mm cannons and two 12.7 mm machine guns mounted in the nose. However, the cannons are greatly limited in their ammo pool. Nonetheless, the XP-50 is a great plane for beginners to practise energy fighting and ammo conservation. #warthunder #warthundergameplay