In 1938, Vultee came up with the idea of creating 4 different aircraft that share the same tooling for the wings, upper deck and tail assemblies. 3 were training aircraft while the final one was a fighter.

The resulting fighter was offered for sale internationally and Sweden ordered 144 which were put into production immediately. Deliveries were due to commence in Sep 41 however a US trade embargo prevented delivery.

After Pearl Harbour, about 50 were taken on strength by the USAAC as the P-66. The remaining 100 were transferred to the British for use as trainers in Canada.

After trials, the aircraft were supplied to China. Many crashed during delivery and many more were simply abandoned as unairworthy in India.

Very few Vanguards saw combat and they were totally outclassed by Japanese fighters. In 1943, they were replaced by P-40s.

AZ Model 1/72 kit completed by Steve Pulbrook in 2017.