Unlikely Matchups: Mosquito VS. P-38

[Spitfire23]

Originally Posted by Ghillied raptor

the pilot is just as big a factor as the plane.

This is the reason we could never know for sure

we can only go from statistics

[DaveE30]

I thought it was the Japanese who called the P-38 "forked-tailed devil"... ?

[Soviet Ace]

Originally Posted by Ghillied raptor

It's hard to say for sure, the pilot is just as big a factor as the plane.If one pilot has the element of suprise the fight could end prematurely.I'm going to go with the YAK though.

That's true. But that's why I'm not sure, and it would be interesting in a mock dogfight?

Also, between a Mosquito and Lightning? It depends once again on who got the jump first? The Mosquito could turn, and the Lightning more than none would have to use BnZ tactics against the Mosquito, unless it was at a higher altitude; where the possibility of a Lightning turning with a Mosquito would be possibly more equal.

[Doktorwzzerd]

Originally Posted by Soviet Ace

That's true. But that's why I'm not sure, and it would be interesting in a mock dogfight?

Also, between a Mosquito and Lightning? It depends once again on who got the jump first? The Mosquito could turn, and the Lightning more than none would have to use BnZ tactics against the Mosquito, unless it was at a higher altitude; where the possibility of a Lightning turning with a Mosquito would be possibly more equal.

I don't know my friend, the Lightning had extremely low wing loading, I think it could probably out turn a Mosquito. Also the P-38 was extensively used as dedicated fighter with an impressive record to match (America's 1st and 2nd highest scoring Aces both flew it exclusively), whereas the Mosquito was used primarily as a hit and run attack aircraft. I actually think this argument might be the opposite of what you suggest; the Mosquito might well have the highest speed with the Lightning being the better turner. Also the Lightning had better armor, being metal, than the Wooden Wonder.

I'd pick the Lightning every time. See the episode of Dogfights that features Robin Olds to see what it could do in straight dogfights.