Early proposed French P-38 Lightning a/c

[Alex Smart]

Hi,

Can anyone help to clear up the following -

The P-38 Lightnings destined for the RAF were originally meant for France. What were the serial numbers of these French P-38 a/c ?

These ex-French Lightnings were given RAF serial numbers from AE978 to AF744 a total of some 667 a/c.

In the event only three of these actualy came to Britain and were AF105,106 and 108, all were later to be transfered to the USAAF in the UK(?).The others were held and taken up in the USAAF.

The Manufacturers serial numbers for all 667 a/c was said to be from 3001 to 3668.

However, I find that these manufacturers serial numbers are for the much later 1942 P-38J-15-LO models.
Were the "rejected" Lightnings rebuilt to this later" J " model ?

Did any early P-38's ever reach France or get off loaded on the way as were other US aircraft types destined for France?

Alex