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July 28, 1941

MEMORANDUM FOR GENERAL MARSHALL:

Subject: Performance of P-39 compared with British Spitflre.

We have received a cable from Royce with following information:

“Price of the Air Corps flew an American version P-39 in competitLon with the British Spitfire 5-E. The P-39 was reported faster than the Spitfire at 15,000 feet and acknowledged by the British pilot to be equal in every way in combat a-b altitudes from 12,000 to 15,000 feet. The P-39 outdove the Spitfire.

“Additional tests are being rushed and mechanics classes on P-39 are starting today, Monday, July 28th.”

H. H. ARNOLD,
Major General, U.S.A.,
Deputy Chief of Staff for Air