Q&A ยท 2:05:18-2:06:36

P-80 wing strength in the V-1 interception question

The P-80 comparison centres on thin wings and the stresses involved in the V-1 interception manoeuvre.

Question

Could the P-80 carry out the V-1 interception manoeuvre being discussed?

Short answer

Possibly, but its wings would need checking and probably reinforcement before the attempt.

Notes

The P-80's thin wings raise concern about the stresses involved in the proposed V-1 interception manoeuvre. Before attempting it, the preference is to check and probably reinforce them. Spitfire interception is used as the comparison, with a reminder about wing reinforcement. The concern is structural suitability as well as speed.