 The A-36A was the first aircraft based on the 'Mustang' airframe ordered by the U.S. Government specifically for use by the USAAF.NAA found an unfilled 'Dive Bomber' USAAF contract, which they got mainly by their own initiative.In so doing, NAA was able to keep the production bays open with the hope the USAAF would place orders for it as a fighter.