The Debate is ON!
Greetings everyone,
My debate challenge was ultimately accepted by an author of WW2 books. He is taking up the third of the three possible topics which is:
3. The P-47 and specifically the P-47 range issue as described in Part 6 of my series on the plane. The P-47's range was limited primarily by an intentional lack of drop tanks. The idea that the P-51 was needed because of range issues with the P-47 is entirely false.
Topic: I will argue that the P-47 with drop tanks could have flown the escort missions over Europe and that the only forces blocking this were political. You have to argue that it couldn't have.
I feel I'm in a very strong position here. Of course my opponent must feel the same way about his position or he would not have accepted the challenge.
This debate will happen in April and will be moderated by Andrew of Flight Line Media. Please check out his channel on youtube. He is doing amazing work there.
If any of you can think of holes in my arguments, or even weak areas please send them to me by direct message. Don't send them publicly.
Greg
Comments (19)
They way it was explained by you in detail, makes a full case that it was political. It's a shame so many lives were lost over petty ego
I’m looking forward to this more than anything I’ve ever watched on YouTube. I just hope my modest technical skills can keep up.
Greg, I told you at the time how I was amazed that I was unaware of that problem. I think you should do an article for WWII Magazine.
I do not envy your antagonist. He is in for a whuppin.
I think whoever takes you up on this is an idiot.
Greg, I just found some relevant info for your debate, but I’m not sure how to DM you. Edit: I emailed you.
Sounds fascinating, can't wait!
You’re the man Greg! Major respect. Rooting for you. This will be fun for us (and, hopefully, for you)!
Sounds like a fun video.
https://checksixblog.wordpress.com/2020/04/16/drop-tank/
You’ve got this Greg, the P-47 detractors claim that getting the tanks produced and the planes modified in time was logistically impossible. 5th AF in the Pacific under General Kenny had Ford in Australia producing a steel 200 gal drop with tank that saw service by October of ‘43. Where there is a will there is a way.
Logistically more impossible than developing an entirely new and different fighter? F-35 anyone? Sounds political to me.
Interesting point of view and i believe youre right.
From what (little) I know, I believe you are correct. Good luck. I never understood why the P-38 weren't used for more long range escort duty. They flew long range missions in the Pacific. IIRC, Charles Lindbergh was working with pilots in the PTO on getting more range out of their planes, the P-38 included.
The reasons are well-covered in Greg’s videos on the P-38.
Let's Goooooo 🤠🤠
I hope it’s not Tom Cleaver, but in any case your position is very strong and backed by primary sources.
Sweet
Waiting for the showdown and greetings from Italy!