Summary and Key Points: The Lockheed P-38 Lightning, the first aircraft produced by Skunk Works under Clarence "Kelly" Johnson, played a pivotal role in World War II. Some experts declare it the best fighter of World War II.
-Introduced in 1941, this twin-boomed fighter was known for its speed, firepower, and versatility.
-It became famous in the Pacific Theater, where America’s "Ace of Aces" Maj. Richard Bong and others achieved significant victories. The P-38 also downed Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto, a key Japanese figure.