Thompson trophy
American aviation award
Quick Summary
The Thompson Trophy was an American aviation award established in 1929, presented to the winner of unlimited-power closed-circuit competitions at the National Air Races. The trophy played a role in advancing aircraft design, particularly with the introduction of monoplanes like the Travel Air "R" which won in 1929, showcasing the benefits of radial engines and streamlined cowlings. This era of air racing spurred significant technological developments that influenced military aircraft design leading up to World War II.12
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