Polish Air Force. SU 22, MIG 29 and an F 16.

Damn!! I didn't notice that -- I think you're right ...

The photo showing casualty evacuation pods attached to an F-5, the reconnaissance variant of the P-38 Lightining. The concept dates back to World War 2 when “body-bags” or wing-mounted enclosures were tested on British Spitfires as well as Stuka dive bombers and ME 109 fighters. Tests were conducted even in the U.S.

Wooden wheels were attached to a P-51A Mustang so that it could be moved around the ramp at the Inglewood, California plant of North American Aviation. When it is ready for flight tests, regular landing wheels with rubber tires will be substituted. This is believed due to the shortage of rubber at the time and the need to prolong the life of the tires once mounted.

Note the "DO NOT INFLATE" on the inside of the wheel.

The article lists this as the P51A but I am thinking this is the earlier A36 Apache. Anyone else know for sure?

Kinda surprised to see "do not inflate" on a wooden wheel back in those days. Sounds very much like a sticker you might see on a piece of wood in todays world!

I'm betting there were a few "pranksters" back then too...:wink: