As the P-47 restoration advances, the team at Airbase Georgia is tackling multiple tasks and is collaborating with other warbird restoration experts for specialized metalwork. This includes fabricating rare parts, such as latching systems for the gun and ammo bay doors, to ensure accuracy and functionality.

History

The P-47 Thunderbolt, an iconic World War II aircraft, excelled in ground-attack and bomber escort roles. It was equipped with eight .50-caliber machine guns and capable of carrying bombs or rockets. Republic produced over 15,000 P-47s, though only about thirteen remain airworthy in the U.S. today. The CAF’s P-47N Thunderbolt, which last flew in 2006, began a full restoration in 2022 at Airbase Georgia, where the team has since made tremendous progress.

Project

The P-47 Thunderbolt offers many inspirational stories, from its role in combat to the bravery of those who flew it. However, the immediate priority is to make the aircraft airworthy once more. This project not only preserves a vital piece of aviation history but also serves as a tribute to the service and sacrifice of all veterans who defended freedom during World War II. Once restored, the Thunderbolt will help the CAF share these stories with future generations, ensuring their legacy is honored and remembered.

Objective

The P-47 Thunderbolt offers several compelling stories, from its role in combat to the bravery of those who flew it. However, the immediate priority is to make the aircraft airworthy once more. This restoration project not only preserves a vital piece of aviation history but also serves as a tribute to the service and sacrifice of all veterans who defended freedom during World War II. Once restored, the Thunderbolt will help the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) share these stories with future generations, ensuring their legacy is honored and remembered.

As the P-47 restoration advances, the team at Airbase Georgia is tirelessly tackling multiple tasks and has begun collaborating with other warbird restoration experts for specialized metalwork. This includes fabricating rare parts, such as latching systems for the gun and ammo bay doors, to ensure accuracy and functionality.