North American Aviation was an American aerospace manufacturer founded in 1934. The company played a significant role in the development of military aircraft during World War II, producing notable models like the P-51 Mustang and the B-25 Mitchell. In the post-war era, North American Aviation expanded into the space industry, contributing to projects such as the X-15 rocket plane and the Apollo program. In 1967, the company merged with Rockwell International, continuing its legacy in aerospace and defense until its eventual dissolution.