The P-47 was designed around the powerful Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp, 18 cylindre engine—the same engine used by two very successful U.S. Navy fighters, the Grumman F6F Hellcat, Vought F4U Corsair, F7F Tigercat, F8F Bearcat, P-61 Black Widow, A-26 Invader and many others. The P-47D-25 and later versions were factory mated with the paddle blade propeller. Other models were retro-fitted with the new props. Introduction of the paddle blade prop enabled the Thunderbolt amazing climbing and turning ability.