First going into production in 1941, the P38 was produced throughout the war, and over 10000 were built. They operated in every theatre of war tat the USA was involved, and apart from escorting bombers, made a name as a ground attack aircraft from North Africa, to Italy, and after D Day in Northern Europe. It also played a key air role in the Pacific and was the most identifiable of US aircraft in the ground attack role.