Superbolt

[cardboard_killer]

[80 years ago today] "• The Republic XP-47J (informally named Superbolt) becomes the first piston engine aircraft to break 500 mph in level flight. The variant, equipped with six machine guns rather than eight, will not be put into production as Republic is planning the XP-72 Ultrabolt (which will in turn not be produced due to the advent of jet fighters).

 

The XP-47J speed record will stand until 1989, when it will be broken by an extensively modified Grumman F8F Bearcat."