[Lee Stewart]

By 1943, the Allies were carrying out a heavy strategic bombing campaign against Germany. While the Royal Air Force largely took to the skies at night, the US Army Air Forces (USAAF) preferred to strike during the day, as this allowed their assaults to achieve more accuracy.

However, there was a problem with daylight air raids: it was easier for Luftwaffe pilots and anti-aircraft gunners on the ground to identify and target the American bombers. As there weren't really any Allied fighters that were capable of providing these aircraft with protection, American losses soared, and it became even more apparent that escorts were needed.

While bombers that had been converted into gunships were initially considered, smaller aircraft were ultimately deemed more equipped for the job. Thanks to its new Merlin engine, the P-51B Mustang was chosen for the job, as it was able to fly for up to four hours and 45 minutes and was generally viewed as a stable aircraft.

When put up against its heavier German opponents, the lightweight and maneuverable P-51B came out the victor.