XP-81

The Consolidated Vultee XP-81 was an American experimental long-range escort fighter combining turboprop and turbojet propulsion. The arrangement aimed to balance cruising endurance with additional high-speed performance. Prototype testing continued around the end of the Second World War, but changing requirements and technical progress prevented the aircraft from becoming an operational production fighter. The experimental aircraft combined different propulsion systems to pursue both efficient cruising and high-speed performance. Problems with the intended turboprop installation and rapid progress in pure jets helped prevent the project from becoming an operational fighter. Delays with the intended turboprop led to initial flight testing with a Merlin piston engine in the nose. That interim arrangement demonstrated the airframe without validating the full mixed-propulsion system originally planned.

Finish and color

Supplied unpainted and printed in the selected color. Choose from the available product color options.

Tabletop use

Suitable for period-appropriate custom scenarios in Global War 1936, Global Empires, and compatible Axis & Allies games. Use suitable scenario or house rules for unit statistics and any technology upgrades. This piece does not supply additional game rules.

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