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The XP-51F was one of a series of experimental aircraft produced in an attempt to develop a lighter Mustang. It was 2,500 pounds lighter than the P-51D, but was powered by the same Packard Merlin V-1650-7 engine. The weight reduction was achieved by using a thinner wing, lighter cockpit canopy and a light weight three blade propeller. The XP-51Fs were built, and the new type achieved a top speed of 466 mph at 29,000 feet. Although the P-51F did not enter production, it was the basis of the P-51H, the final major production version of the aircraft.