The P-40M Warhawk is an iconic fighter plane of World War II, and one of the most famous pilots who flew this model is New Zealander Geoffrey Bryson Fisken. Born on February 17, 1916, in Gisborne, New Zealand, Fisken is recognized as the top fighter ace of the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) in the Pacific.
Fisken joined the RNZAF in 1940, just before New Zealand entered World War II. After intensive training, he was assigned to reconnaissance and combat missions in the South Pacific. It was there that he took command of the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, an American fighter plane renowned for its robustness and versatility.
The P-40M Warhawk, an improved version of the P-40 series, was equipped with an Allison V-1710-81 engine of 1,200 horsepower and could reach a maximum speed of 608 km/h (378 mph). Armed with six 12.7 mm Browning machine guns, the Warhawk was feared for its ability to inflict heavy damage on enemy aircraft.
In 1942, Fisken was assigned to the RNZAF's 14th Squadron based on Guadalcanal Island, a strategic position in the Pacific campaign. It was there that he demonstrated his exceptional talent as a fighter pilot, shooting down several enemy planes, mainly Japanese A6M Zeros.
Among his most famous exploits was the air battle on August 7, 1943, where he shot down three enemy planes in a single sortie. This engagement solidified his reputation and made him a national hero in New Zealand. Over his career, Fisken was credited with 11 confirmed victories, making him one of the most prolific aces in the Pacific.
After the war, Fisken was honored with numerous decorations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for his heroic actions. He returned to civilian life and continued to be a respected figure in New Zealand until his death on June 12, 2011.
Geoffrey Bryson Fisken remains a legend of New Zealand military aviation, and his association with the P-40M Warhawk is a testament to the heroism and skill of RNZAF pilots during World War II.