Fighter aircraft are mainly used for reconnaissance flights, air defense, and bomber escorts.

The P-51 Mustang was a solution to the clear need for an effective bomber escort.

The Ki-45 was initially used as a long-range bomber escort.

There the group continued training on P-39s, flying bomber escort and coastal patrol practice missions.

Because of the extended range of the P-51, the primary mission of the 357th continued to be heavy bomber escort.

Allied strategists quickly exploited the long-range fighter as a bomber escort.

The 412th had reported in the summer of 1945 that the P-80 would be well suited for bomber escort, counterair, and ground support.

Several squadrons used this version to provide long-range bomber escort.

During the war the 84th flew missions ranging from bomber escort, ground attack, counter-air, and close air support.

This made it ideal for bomber escort, which allowed a maximum number of bombs to hit targets, and bring the war to a conclusion.