{"product_id":"9781780961538","title":"Allison-Engined P-51 Mustang","description":"While the introduction of the Merlin engine did improve the Mustang's performance and produce the bubble-canopied fighters with which we associate the name, credit must be given to the Allison-engined variants that preceded it. From its inception in early 1940, the Mustang's development was extraordinarily rapid – such was the need for a fighter at the time, and the confidence in its design. By early January 1942, the Mustang was in service with the RAF, flying low-level armed reconnaissance operations over Northern France. Despite later Merlin variants arriving in-theatre, this remained a hunting ground for the Allison Mustangs through to D-Day and beyond – a remarkable service length. In American hands the Allison-engined Mustangs performed as dive-bombers and fighters, serving with distinction in North Africa and the Far East.","brand":"Bloomsbury USA","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47181413515504,"sku":"9781780961538","price":11.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0737\/7593\/9824\/files\/9781780961538_p0.jpg?v=1763774474","url":"https:\/\/shop-qa.barnesandnoble.com\/products\/9781780961538","provider":"Barnes \u0026 Noble (DEV)","version":"1.0","type":"link"}