Although designed as a high altitude escort fighter the P-47 was adapted to carry not only additional fuel tanks but also listed GP bombs, M-10 rockets, and fragmentation bombs among its weapon loading. Coupled with the eight .50 cal Browning machine guns mounted in the wings this turned the Thunderbolt into what is considered by many to be the most effective fighter-bomber of the second world war.
In January 27, 1945, a Brazillian P-47, A-6, piloted by Lt. Raymundo Canario (50 combat missions), lost 128cm (more than four feet) of his right wing after he hit a chimney during an attack. He was able to return safely