The Twin Monster That Took Down Jets

Looking like something from science fiction with its unusual double-fuselage design, the North American F-82 Twin Mustang was undoubtedly one of the most unconventional warbirds ever to take to the skies. Born in the crucible of World War 2 and coming of age in the dawn of the Cold War, the F-82 was the last piston-powered fighter commissioned by the United States Air Force. The aircraft's distinctive side-by-side cockpits provided unmatched versatility, enabling pilots to share control responsibilities during extended missions.

This innovative layout, along with the F-82's lengthened fuselage and strengthened wings, endowed it with exceptional range and flexibility.
From long-range escort missions to night fighting, from interception to ground attack, the F-82 proved its mettle time and again, taking on roles that pushed the boundaries of what a piston-engine fighter could achieve. It embarked on marathon flights, shattering records and expectations alike, showcasing the ingenuity and innovation behind its groundbreaking design, even as the jet age nipped at its heels.