Republic XP-72 Super Thunderbolt aircraft resembled their predecessors, but with a different nose treatment.

Two prototypes were built. A 3,450 horsepower Pratt and Whitney Wasp Major radial engine resided under the cowl.

The first prototype flew on February 2, 1944 using a standard four bladed propeller. The second flew in July of 1944 using a special contra rotating six bladed propeller to offset the torque effects of the engine.

The second prototype was lost early in its flight test program, but the first prototype aircraft so impressed the United States Air Force that they ordered 100 production aircraft.

Republic XP-72 orders were canceled at the end of World War II prior to any other aircraft being produced when it was realized that jet powered aircraft were superior in performance.

Specifications
Primary Function:         Crew:         Engine:         Power:         Length:         Wingspan:         Weight Empty:         Max. Weight:         Machine Guns:         Bombs:         Cruise Speed:         Max. Speed:         Climb Rate:         Ceiling:         Range:         First Flight:	experimental one P&W Wasp Major 3,450 hp. 36' 7" 40' 11" 10,965 lbs. 14,750 lbs. 6- .50 cal. 2,000 lbs. 294 mph 490 mph 5,800 fpm 42,000 feet 1,200 miles 2/2/44