WATCH: P-47s Strafe German Airfields Relentlessly

The P-47 Thunderbolt played a crucial role in the 8th Air Force’s mission to destroy the German Luftwaffe during World War II. While the primary objective was to achieve air superiority through air-to-air combat, the destruction of German aircraft on the ground became equally vital. This is where the P-47 excelled.

Equipped with eight .50-caliber machine guns, the Thunderbolt unleashed devastating strafing attacks on grounded German planes, fuel depots, and hangars.

These attacks not only destroyed Luftwaffe aircraft before they could take off but also crippled key infrastructure, further weakening Germany’s ability to defend against Allied bombing raids. The P-47’s high durability and firepower made it one of the most effective fighter-bombers for these dangerous low-altitude missions.

Its efforts were pivotal in the Allied strategy to neutralize the Luftwaffe, ultimately paving the way for air superiority over Europe.