Many a long range fighters were discussed in our forum. Bf-110, Zero, P-38, P-51, F4U, Spitfire VIII, taking the war to the enemy, with more or less success. Sometimes the thinking of the day was more against the long range use, than the real technical limitations.
Now what would be realistic options for the Allied air forces in 1943, using the historically available planes, while allowing modest/minor modifications to modify them, for long range work? Let's say the orders are given in September 1st 1942, so the planes can be deployed in 1st half of 1943. We need a plane with combat range of roughly 450 miles, for starters. If the plane can perform well at ~25000 ft altitude, it scores extra points
Now what would be realistic options for the Allied air forces in 1943, using the historically available planes, while allowing modest/minor modifications to modify them, for long range work? Let's say the orders are given in September 1st 1942, so the planes can be deployed in 1st half of 1943. We need a plane with combat range of roughly 450 miles, for starters. If the plane can perform well at ~25000 ft altitude, it scores extra points