The Kingcobra was derived from the Bell XP-39E which was a higher
powered Airacobra with new wings and tail unit. The main versions built
were the P-63C(1227 built) powered by a 1510hp(1126kW) Allison, the
P-63E(13 built) powered by a 1425hp(1063kW) Allison, the RP-63A(90
built) and the RP-63C(200 built). Of the total of 3303 of all versions
built, more than 2400 were operated by the USSR during the war. About
six Kingcobras remain active in civil markings.
NL163FS c/n 43-11223 USA
Single seat fighter bomber first flown in 1942
Engine: 1325hp(990kW) Allison V-1710-93
Length: 32’8”(9.95m)
Height: 12’7”(3.84m)
Wingspan: 38’4”(11.68m)
No.built: 1725
Range: 450miles(724km)
Cruising speed: 378mph(608kmh) Empty weight: 6375lb(2892kg)
Maximum take-off weight: 10,500lb(4763kg)
Illustrated below is an
example of a Bell P-63E Kingcobra.
N6763 c/n 296E1-1R |