USAF aircraft designation

[ChemicalChaos]

A question I've long wondered - how does the USAF designate their aircraft?

Not only do the various categories not go at all in order of aircraft chronology, but several aircraft have the same code designation (F4 Corsair, F4 Phantom etc).

On a related note, what differentiating factors led to a fighter plane being either F for fighter or P for Pursuit? What even is Pursuit?

Any answers glady appreciated!

Thanks,

Matt

[ChemicalChaos]

AH, thanks! So it appears they just keep resetting it? Handy.....