Curtiss P-40

The Curtiss P-40 Warhawk / Tomahawk / Kittyhawk was an American single-engine, single-seat, all-metal fighter and ground attack aircraft that first flew in 1938. It was used by the air forces of 28 nations, including those of most Allied powers during World War II, and remained in front line service until the end of the war. By November 1944, when production of the P-40 ceased, 13,738 had been built.

Curtiss P-40 in Days of Infamy
Before the US Marines first attempt to retake Hawaii, in mid 1942, Les Dillon thought about the damage the Japanese fighter Zero could do, and how it had chewed up Allied fighters like the Warhawk along every front.