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Bell Textron Inc., an American aerospace manufacturer based in Fort Worth, Texas, has a long history of producing military rotorcraft and commercial helicopters. With over 80 years in the aviation industry, Bell's journey began with Lawrence 'Larry' Bell, an American industrialist who developed a passion for aviation after attending an air show. This interest led him to join the Glenn L. Martin Company in 1912, where he quickly rose through the ranks. After leaving the company due to a denied ownership opportunity, Bell founded Bell Aircraft Company in New York in 1935.
The company's first military contract came in 1937 with the YFM-1 Airacuda, although only 13 units were produced before it was scrapped in 1942. Greater success followed with the P-39 Airacobra fighter aircraft used during World War II. Despite performance issues at high altitudes, it was effective for ground attacks and played a role in the Guadalcanal campaign.
Towards the end of World War II, Bell introduced the P-63 Kingcobra and the P-59 Airacomet, America's first jet aircraft. Although these models had limited impact on wartime efforts or were primarily experimental like the P-59, they contributed to future technological advancements.
