[2] In March 1942, the USAAF placed an order for a second XP-58 that would incorporate increased fuel tanks to obtain a range of 3,000 mi (4,800 km).

As a result, the second XP-58 was canceled and the role of the design reverted to that of a high-altitude fighter, using large-bore cannon firing high-explosive shells to break up bomber formations.

[3][4] The 37 mm (1.46 in) M4 autocannon was originally selected for a quadruple mount in the nose, but the trajectory of the 37mm shells dropped lower than other weaponry, limiting its effective range.

In January 1943, the USAAF initiated a separate program to build a dedicated photographic reconnaissance aircraft with superior range, altitude and speed characteristics, as the loss of air bases in China had placed strategic targets in Japan beyond the range of almost all existing Allied aircraft, and some USAAF leaders objected to diverting bombers such as the B-29 to serve in a pure reconnaissance role.

The XF-11 would be plagued by technical and managerial delays and never entered service; Arnold later publicly expressed regret for his decision.

The XP-58 was then flown to Wright Field for USAAF acceptance tests, even though the turbo-superchargers were experiencing torching and a number of systems were not installed including provision for cockpit pressurization and armament with its fire-control equipment.