Picture No 0260

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In 1944, North American Aviation submitted a design for a swept-wing day fighter which could also be used as a dive-bomber or escort fighter. Two prototype XP-86s were contracted in late 1944, but were not built until after WWII due to the incorporation of several design modifications which were prompted by German research data. The first XP-86 prototype flew on 1 October 1947, powered by a 3,750-pound thrust General Electric. J35 engine. After it was re-engined with a more powerful G.E. J47 turbojet the following spring, and re-designated the YP-86A, it exceeded the speed of sound in a shallow dive. The first production model was initially designated the P-86A, but became the F-86A in June 1948. By the time the new fighter entered US Air Force service in 1949, it had gained the name "Sabre."
The F-86 Sabre was the first USAF Jet to enter service, just in time for combat in the Korean War
North Amercan F-86 Sabre FU178, ex-USAF (code FU-178/8178) Old Warden, Bedfordshire
Assembled in Los Angeles in 1948, delivered to the USAF in 1949. Retired from military service 1958 and sent to a Fresno scrap yard. It was rescued that same year and flew again in 1974. FU178 is now resident in the UK, but is believed to be heading overseas.
disabled