Aircraft from 1940 - 1949
It was only natural that another World War would further the field of aviation by leaps and bounds, giving rise to guided ordnance, the jet engine and helicopter flight.
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There are a total of 283 Aircraft from 1940 to 1949 in the Military Factory. Entries are listed below in alphanumeric order. Flag images indicative of country of origin.
1944
Aichi B7A Ryusei (Grace)
The Aichi-produced B7A Ryusei (translated to "Shooting Star" and nicknamed "Grace" by the Allies) was a limited-production to...
The Aichi-produced B7A Ryusei (translated to "Shooting Star" and nicknamed "Grace" by the Allies) was a limited-production to...
1940
Aichi D3A (Val)
The D3A series of aircraft (dubbed "Val" by the Allies) were thought to be all but extinct when the war in the Pacific began....
The D3A series of aircraft (dubbed "Val" by the Allies) were thought to be all but extinct when the war in the Pacific began....
1941
Aichi E13A (Jake)
Based on number alone, the Aichi production E13A series of floatplanes (dubbed "Jake" by the Allies) was the most important s...
Based on number alone, the Aichi production E13A series of floatplanes (dubbed "Jake" by the Allies) was the most important s...
1944
Aichi E16A Zuiun (Paul)
The E16A Zuiun (translated into "Auspicious Cloud" and codenamed "Paul" by the Allies) was a dedicated reconnaissance floatpl...
The E16A Zuiun (translated into "Auspicious Cloud" and codenamed "Paul" by the Allies) was a dedicated reconnaissance floatpl...
1945
Aichi M6A Seiran
This oft-forgotten Aichi design was classified as an attack floatplane that was designed to be carried aboard the Japanese Na...
This oft-forgotten Aichi design was classified as an attack floatplane that was designed to be carried aboard the Japanese Na...
1940
Amiot 354
The Amiot 354 bomber and reconnaissance platform was a quite capable aircraft when war broke out over France. The system had ...
The Amiot 354 bomber and reconnaissance platform was a quite capable aircraft when war broke out over France. The system had ...
1947
Antonov An-2 (Colt)
The Antonov An-2 is a multi-role light utility biplane initially produced under the Soviet flag. Despite its 1940's pedigree,...
The Antonov An-2 is a multi-role light utility biplane initially produced under the Soviet flag. Despite its 1940's pedigree,...
1941
Arado Ar 232 Tausendfussler (Millipede)
The Arado aircraft firm produced one of the more identifiable transport aircraft of the Luftwaffe during the Second World War...
The Arado aircraft firm produced one of the more identifiable transport aircraft of the Luftwaffe during the Second World War...
1944
Arado Ar 234 (Blitz)
As the German Messerschmitt Me 262 "Schwalbe" ("Swallow") holds the distinction of becoming the world's first operational jet...
As the German Messerschmitt Me 262 "Schwalbe" ("Swallow") holds the distinction of becoming the world's first operational jet...
1940
Arado Ar 240
The Arado Ar 240 was designed to an RLM 1938 response to replace the twin engine, two seat Messerschmitt BF 110 Zerstorer hea...
The Arado Ar 240 was designed to an RLM 1938 response to replace the twin engine, two seat Messerschmitt BF 110 Zerstorer hea...
1943
Arado Ar E.340
The Arado-produced Ar E.340 was designed to a German requirement for a twin-engined bomber to replace the aging Junkers Ju 88...
The Arado-produced Ar E.340 was designed to a German requirement for a twin-engined bomber to replace the aging Junkers Ju 88...
1944
Arado Ar E.381
The Ar E.381-series of prototypes was submitted in 1944 for review by the German Air Ministry. Whilst a plethora of companies...
The Ar E.381-series of prototypes was submitted in 1944 for review by the German Air Ministry. Whilst a plethora of companies...
1940
Arado Ar E.530
The idea of twin fuselage aircraft was always in the minds of military aircraft engineers throughout the Second World War. Co...
The idea of twin fuselage aircraft was always in the minds of military aircraft engineers throughout the Second World War. Co...
1943
Arado Ar E.555
Arado proposed this E.555 flying wing concept towards the end of 1943 as a high-speed long-range bomber. The flying wing conc...
Arado proposed this E.555 flying wing concept towards the end of 1943 as a high-speed long-range bomber. The flying wing conc...
1945
Arado Ar E.560
The Arado E.560 series of developmental high-speed jet bombers saw a large evolution on paper. Design of the platform centere...
The Arado E.560 series of developmental high-speed jet bombers saw a large evolution on paper. Design of the platform centere...
1944
Arado Ar E.580
Once the Volksjager competition came around in 1944, Arado Flugzeugwerke went back to a 1943 design it had had and touched it...
Once the Volksjager competition came around in 1944, Arado Flugzeugwerke went back to a 1943 design it had had and touched it...
1944
Arado Ar E.581.4
The Arado Ar E.581.4 was conceived of as a single-seat jet fighter utilizing a delta-wing shape. The system was not a "true" ...
The Arado Ar E.581.4 was conceived of as a single-seat jet fighter utilizing a delta-wing shape. The system was not a "true" ...
1943
Arado Ar E.654 (Kampfzerstorer / Skorpion)
The Arado Ar E.654 was proposed as a heavy fighter / destroyer platform designed from another Arado product - the Ar 240. Th...
The Arado Ar E.654 was proposed as a heavy fighter / destroyer platform designed from another Arado product - the Ar 240. Th...
1944
Arado Ar Projekt I
The Arado "Projekt I" was intended to be a two-man jet-powered night fighter. The aircraft featured a slender yet short fusel...
The Arado "Projekt I" was intended to be a two-man jet-powered night fighter. The aircraft featured a slender yet short fusel...
1945
Arado Ar Projekt II
The Arado Ar Projekt II was a proposed jet-powered fighter of considerable size. It carried a basic classification of nightfi...
The Arado Ar Projekt II was a proposed jet-powered fighter of considerable size. It carried a basic classification of nightfi...
1943
Arado Ar TEW 16/43-13
The Arado Ar TEW 16/43-13 was a design concept envisioned as a rocket-propelled interceptor for the German Luftwaffe. The des...
The Arado Ar TEW 16/43-13 was a design concept envisioned as a rocket-propelled interceptor for the German Luftwaffe. The des...
1943
Arado Ar TEW 16/43-15
The Arado Ar TEW 16/43-15 concept was born out of an in-house research project studying the possibilities of jet-powered figh...
The Arado Ar TEW 16/43-15 concept was born out of an in-house research project studying the possibilities of jet-powered figh...
1943
Arado Ar TEW 16/43-19
With development of the advanced twin-engine, jet-powered Ar 234 "Blitz" bomber coming along, the Arado firm turned its atten...
With development of the advanced twin-engine, jet-powered Ar 234 "Blitz" bomber coming along, the Arado firm turned its atten...
1943
Arado Ar TEW 16/43-23
The single-seat, jet-powered Arado Ar TEW 16/43-23 design was penciled sometime in 1943. Categorized as a fighter, the type m...
The single-seat, jet-powered Arado Ar TEW 16/43-23 design was penciled sometime in 1943. Categorized as a fighter, the type m...
1941
Armstrong Whitworth Albemarle
The Armstrong Whitworth Albemarle became one of those aircraft designs that evolved into a role not initially envisioned. The...
The Armstrong Whitworth Albemarle became one of those aircraft designs that evolved into a role not initially envisioned. The...
1942
Avro Lancaster
The Avro Lancaster went on to become the most important British heavy bomber or World War 2. Interestingly, its success was b...
The Avro Lancaster went on to become the most important British heavy bomber or World War 2. Interestingly, its success was b...
1945
Avro Lincoln
The Avro Lincoln became a late-World War 2, four-engined heavy bomber developed form the hugely successful Avro Lancaster ser...
The Avro Lincoln became a late-World War 2, four-engined heavy bomber developed form the hugely successful Avro Lancaster ser...
1940
Avro Manchester
The Avro Manchester was a semi-successful attempt by the Avro firm to fulfill Air Ministry Specification P.13/36. The specifi...
The Avro Manchester was a semi-successful attempt by the Avro firm to fulfill Air Ministry Specification P.13/36. The specifi...
1945
Bachem Ba 349 Natter (Adder / Viper)
The Bachem Ba 349 Natter (translated to "Adder" though also known as the "Viper") was one of the late-war German aircraft ini...
The Bachem Ba 349 Natter (translated to "Adder" though also known as the "Viper") was one of the late-war German aircraft ini...
1941
Beechcraft C-45 (Expeditor)
The Beechcraft C-45 was based on the Beech Aircraft Corporation's civilian-minded Model 18 "Twin Beech" series. First flight ...
The Beechcraft C-45 was based on the Beech Aircraft Corporation's civilian-minded Model 18 "Twin Beech" series. First flight ...
1944
Beechcraft XA-38 Grizzly / Destroyer (Model 28)
The XA-38 was a developmental twin-engine heavy fighter produced by the Beech Aircraft firm. By all accounts, she was a stabl...
The XA-38 was a developmental twin-engine heavy fighter produced by the Beech Aircraft firm. By all accounts, she was a stabl...
1941
Bell P-39 Airacobra
The Bell P-39 Airacobra is yet another in the long line aircraft studies stemming from World War 2 in the "what-might-have be...
The Bell P-39 Airacobra is yet another in the long line aircraft studies stemming from World War 2 in the "what-might-have be...
1942
Bell P-59 Airacomet
The Bell-produced P-59 Airacomet series is one of those aircraft that becomes more of a study in American jet pioneering than...
The Bell-produced P-59 Airacomet series is one of those aircraft that becomes more of a study in American jet pioneering than...
1943
Bell P-63 Kingcobra
At its core, the Bell P-63 Kingcobra proved a modest improvement over the relative failure that was the P-39 Airacobra. Thoug...
At its core, the Bell P-63 Kingcobra proved a modest improvement over the relative failure that was the P-39 Airacobra. Thoug...
1947
Bell X-1
The Bell X-1 was an advanced technology demonstrator that became the first aircraft in the history of aviation to break the s...
The Bell X-1 was an advanced technology demonstrator that became the first aircraft in the history of aviation to break the s...
1940
Bell XFL Airabonita
The XFL "Airabonita" was a Bell Aircraft Company product developed in parallel with the P-39 Airacobra, a land-based USAAF de...
The XFL "Airabonita" was a Bell Aircraft Company product developed in parallel with the P-39 Airacobra, a land-based USAAF de...
1940
Bell XFM-1 Airacuda
In the same way that the XFM-1 Airacuda was a "different" sort of aircraft, the Bell company itself was "different sort" of a...
In the same way that the XFM-1 Airacuda was a "different" sort of aircraft, the Bell company itself was "different sort" of a...
1945
Bell XP-83
In 1942, with World War in full swing across Europe and the Pacific, work began on an American turbo jet-powered aircraft to ...
In 1942, with World War in full swing across Europe and the Pacific, work began on an American turbo jet-powered aircraft to ...
1945
Blackburn Firebrand
The Blackburn Firebrand was a carried-based strike fighter aircraft developed by Blackburn Aircraft of the United Kingdom. Sh...
The Blackburn Firebrand was a carried-based strike fighter aircraft developed by Blackburn Aircraft of the United Kingdom. Sh...
1940
Blohm and Voss Bv 138
The Blohm and Voss (also written as "Blohm und Voss" or "Blohm & Voss") Bv 138 was a German flying boat that saw quantitative...
The Blohm and Voss (also written as "Blohm und Voss" or "Blohm & Voss") Bv 138 was a German flying boat that saw quantitative...
1941
Blohm and Voss Bv 222 Wiking (Viking)
The Blohm & Voss Bv 222 Wiking (translating to "Viking") was a large German flying boat design of World War 2. The behemoth s...
The Blohm & Voss Bv 222 Wiking (translating to "Viking") was a large German flying boat design of World War 2. The behemoth s...
1944
Blohm and Voss Bv 238
The mammoth Blohm & Voss Bv 238 was the next evolution in the Blohm & Voss flying boat series for Germany during World War Tw...
The mammoth Blohm & Voss Bv 238 was the next evolution in the Blohm & Voss flying boat series for Germany during World War Tw...
1943
Blohm and Voss P.192
The German concern of Blohm & Voss (also Blohm und Voss) is largely remembered for their commitment to shipbuilding and its l...
The German concern of Blohm & Voss (also Blohm und Voss) is largely remembered for their commitment to shipbuilding and its l...
1943
Boeing B-29 Superfortress
B-29 Superfortress status is often associated with the atomic bombs dropped on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki ...
B-29 Superfortress status is often associated with the atomic bombs dropped on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki ...
1948
Boeing B-50 Superfortress
Though looking every bit the identical twin of the World War Two-era B-29 Superfortress (also produced by Boeing), the B-50 i...
Though looking every bit the identical twin of the World War Two-era B-29 Superfortress (also produced by Boeing), the B-50 i...
1944
Boeing C-97 Stratofreighter
A post-World War 2 design, the C-97 was developed by The Boeing Company from its Model 367 product - a military-minded transp...
A post-World War 2 design, the C-97 was developed by The Boeing Company from its Model 367 product - a military-minded transp...
1947
Boeing L-15 Scout
The L-15 Scout was a light and small observation liaison aircraft produced in limited numbers by the Boeing Aircraft Company ...
The L-15 Scout was a light and small observation liaison aircraft produced in limited numbers by the Boeing Aircraft Company ...
1941
Boeing-Stearman Kaydet
When The Boeing Company acquired the Stearman company in 1939, it also acquired the design and production rights to the promi...
When The Boeing Company acquired the Stearman company in 1939, it also acquired the design and production rights to the promi...
1943
Brewster XA-32
The United States Army Air Corps appreciated the tactical scope of the German Luftwaffe Junkers Ju 87 "Stuka" dive bombers an...
The United States Army Air Corps appreciated the tactical scope of the German Luftwaffe Junkers Ju 87 "Stuka" dive bombers an...
1940
Bristol Beaufort
The Bristol Beaufort enjoyed a strong run between the war years of 1940-1943 as the primary British torpedo bomber in service...
The Bristol Beaufort enjoyed a strong run between the war years of 1940-1943 as the primary British torpedo bomber in service...
1942
CAC Boomerang
The Commonwealth Boomerang (also known as the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation - or "CAC" - Boomerang) was of completely Aus...
The Commonwealth Boomerang (also known as the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation - or "CAC" - Boomerang) was of completely Aus...
1941
CAC Wackett
The CAC Wackett was an indigenously designed and developed dedicated basic trainer for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) ...
The CAC Wackett was an indigenously designed and developed dedicated basic trainer for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) ...
1941
CAC Woomera (A23)
The CAC A23 "Woomera" was a short-lived dive bomber/torpedo bomber of Australian design during World War 2. The push of Japan...
The CAC A23 "Woomera" was a short-lived dive bomber/torpedo bomber of Australian design during World War 2. The push of Japan...
1940
Caproni-Campini N1 (CC.2)
With the introduction of the N1 (may also be known as the CC.2), Italy became only the second nation in the world to achieve ...
With the introduction of the N1 (may also be known as the CC.2), Italy became only the second nation in the world to achieve ...
1941
Consolidated B-24 Liberator
The Consolidated B-24 Liberator became a major player for Allied forces during World War 2. Its exploits ranged the world ove...
The Consolidated B-24 Liberator became a major player for Allied forces during World War 2. Its exploits ranged the world ove...
1945
Consolidated B-32 Dominator
The Consolidated B-32 Dominator was a limited production four-engine heavy bomber requested by the United States Air Force as...
The Consolidated B-32 Dominator was a limited production four-engine heavy bomber requested by the United States Air Force as...
1940
Consolidated PB2Y Coronado
By the middle of the 1930's America was no longer blind to the real possibility that the war would sooner or later be waged a...
By the middle of the 1930's America was no longer blind to the real possibility that the war would sooner or later be waged a...
1943
Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer
The Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer was a further development of the United States Navy's PB4Y-1 anti-submarine warfare aircraf...
The Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer was a further development of the United States Navy's PB4Y-1 anti-submarine warfare aircraf...
1947
Convair B-36 Peacemaker
If developed a few years sooner, the B-36 could have very well taken part in the Second World War. The initial designed was p...
If developed a few years sooner, the B-36 could have very well taken part in the Second World War. The initial designed was p...
1941
Curtiss P-40 Warhawk / Kittyhawk / Tomahawk
The P-40 Warhawk / Kittyhawk / Tomahawk series of aircraft was the further development of the P-36 Hawk platform (detailed el...
The P-40 Warhawk / Kittyhawk / Tomahawk series of aircraft was the further development of the P-36 Hawk platform (detailed el...
1943
Curtiss SB2C Helldiver
The Curtiss SB2C Helldiver was a rather unassuming dive bomber / reconnaissance aircraft serving throughout World War 2 begin...
The Curtiss SB2C Helldiver was a rather unassuming dive bomber / reconnaissance aircraft serving throughout World War 2 begin...
1942
Curtiss SO3C Seamew
The Curtiss SO3C "Seamew" (Curtiss Model 82) was an oft-forgotten navy reconnaissance/scout/patrol floatplane produced in qua...
The Curtiss SO3C "Seamew" (Curtiss Model 82) was an oft-forgotten navy reconnaissance/scout/patrol floatplane produced in qua...
1944
Curtiss XF14C
Curtiss Aircraft enjoyed success with its inline piston-engined P-40 "Warhawk" series of fighters which went on to serve in m...
Curtiss Aircraft enjoyed success with its inline piston-engined P-40 "Warhawk" series of fighters which went on to serve in m...
1941
Curtiss XP-46
The smallish XP-46 was to be the answer for the deficiencies encountered in the P-40 Warhawk platform. Unfortunately for Curt...
The smallish XP-46 was to be the answer for the deficiencies encountered in the P-40 Warhawk platform. Unfortunately for Curt...
1942
Curtiss-Wright C-46 Commando
The United States Air Force utilized the C-46 Commando series as their primary transport workhorse in the Pacific Theater of ...
The United States Air Force utilized the C-46 Commando series as their primary transport workhorse in the Pacific Theater of ...
1943
Curtiss-Wright XP-55 Ascender
The XP-55 Ascender was an unorthodox attempt by the Curtiss-Wright company that produced just three prototype models. Answeri...
The XP-55 Ascender was an unorthodox attempt by the Curtiss-Wright company that produced just three prototype models. Answeri...
1948
Curtiss-Wright XP-87 / XF-87 Nighthawk
The XF-87 was a failed proposal attempted by the Curtiss-Wright aircraft design bureau to meet an Air Force requirement for t...
The XF-87 was a failed proposal attempted by the Curtiss-Wright aircraft design bureau to meet an Air Force requirement for t...
1946
de Havilland DH.100 Vampire
The de Havilland DH.100 Vampire held two key distinctions concerning aviation history - she was the first jet-powered aircraf...
The de Havilland DH.100 Vampire held two key distinctions concerning aviation history - she was the first jet-powered aircraf...
1946
de Havilland DH.103 Hornet / Sea Hornet
From the outset, the de Havilland D.H.103 Hornet" was designed to a British requirement of a twin-engine, long-range fighter-...
From the outset, the de Havilland D.H.103 Hornet" was designed to a British requirement of a twin-engine, long-range fighter-...
1942
de Havilland DH.98 Mosquito
Discussions of war-winning World War 2 aircraft regularly seem to leave out one of the most famous and successful of the conf...
Discussions of war-winning World War 2 aircraft regularly seem to leave out one of the most famous and successful of the conf...
1942
Dornier Do 217
The Dornier Do 217 was a multi-faceted performer for the German Luftwaffe that ended up fulfilling various roles from bomber ...
The Dornier Do 217 was a multi-faceted performer for the German Luftwaffe that ended up fulfilling various roles from bomber ...
1945
Dornier Do 335 Pfeil (Arrow)
The Dornier Do 335 Pfeil (or "Arrow") was one of the more unique prop-driven designs of the Second World War. Designed and pa...
The Dornier Do 335 Pfeil (or "Arrow") was one of the more unique prop-driven designs of the Second World War. Designed and pa...
1946
Douglas A-1 Skyraider
The Douglas A-1 Skyraider series would have become a major contributor to warplans concerning American involvement in World W...
The Douglas A-1 Skyraider series would have become a major contributor to warplans concerning American involvement in World W...
1941
Douglas A-20 Havoc / Boston
The Douglas A-20 Havoc served Allied forces through most of World War 2, fighting for British, American and Soviet forces. Th...
The Douglas A-20 Havoc served Allied forces through most of World War 2, fighting for British, American and Soviet forces. Th...
1941
Douglas A-24 Banshee
The Douglas A-24 "Banshee" dive bomber fit the requirement of the United States Army for a capable dive bomber-type aircraft....
The Douglas A-24 "Banshee" dive bomber fit the requirement of the United States Army for a capable dive bomber-type aircraft....
1944
Douglas A-26 / B-26 Invader
The Douglas A-26 Invader was a distinguished twin-engine light bomber whose origins were well-placed in the Second World War....
The Douglas A-26 Invader was a distinguished twin-engine light bomber whose origins were well-placed in the Second World War....
1940
Douglas C-47 Skytrain / Dakota
The C-47 Skytrain was a product of the Douglas Aircraft Company and is regarded as the best transport of World War 2. Interes...
The C-47 Skytrain was a product of the Douglas Aircraft Company and is regarded as the best transport of World War 2. Interes...
1942
Douglas C-54 Skymaster (DC-4)
Derived from the commercial DC-4 airliner, the C-54 Skymaster was a workhorse transport aircraft for both the United States A...
Derived from the commercial DC-4 airliner, the C-54 Skymaster was a workhorse transport aircraft for both the United States A...
1945
Fairchild AC-119 Shadow / Stinger
The AC-119 series was a modified "G" model of the successful C-119 "Flying Boxcar" transport aircraft. The AC-119's would see...
The AC-119 series was a modified "G" model of the successful C-119 "Flying Boxcar" transport aircraft. The AC-119's would see...
1947
Fairchild C-119 Flying Boxcar
Fairchild Corporation produced a winner in the post-war world with the introduction of the C-119 "Flying Boxcar". The Boxcar ...
Fairchild Corporation produced a winner in the post-war world with the introduction of the C-119 "Flying Boxcar". The Boxcar ...
1943
Fairey Firefly
The Fairey Firefly was a hugely successful, two-seat, carrierborne fighter aircraft serving with the Royal Fleet Air Arm thro...
The Fairey Firefly was a hugely successful, two-seat, carrierborne fighter aircraft serving with the Royal Fleet Air Arm thro...
1943
Fiat G.55 Centauro (Centaur)
Undoubtedly, the Fiat G.55 Centauro (Centaur) served as Italy's best fighter design of World War 2. The type made use of a li...
Undoubtedly, the Fiat G.55 Centauro (Centaur) served as Italy's best fighter design of World War 2. The type made use of a li...
1944
Fieseler Fi 103R (Reichenberg)
The Fiseler Fi 103R was, in essence, the piloted form of the successful V-1 rocket that terrorized London citizens throughout...
The Fiseler Fi 103R was, in essence, the piloted form of the successful V-1 rocket that terrorized London citizens throughout...
1943
Fisher XP-75 / P-75 Eagle
General Motors became a major player in the American manufacturing realm when World War 2 arrived for the United States. With...
General Motors became a major player in the American manufacturing realm when World War 2 arrived for the United States. With...
1940
Focke-Wulf Fw 189 Uhu (Owl)
The Focke-Wulf brand Fw 189 Uhu (translated to "Owl") was of the most peculiar aircraft design for the German Luftwaffe in th...
The Focke-Wulf brand Fw 189 Uhu (translated to "Owl") was of the most peculiar aircraft design for the German Luftwaffe in th...
1942
Focke-Wulf Fw 191
The Fw 191 was the Focke-Wulf submission to the German Air Ministry's "Bomber B" program of 1939. Authorities were sold on th...
The Fw 191 was the Focke-Wulf submission to the German Air Ministry's "Bomber B" program of 1939. Authorities were sold on th...
1945
Focke-Wulf Ta 152
The Focke-Wulf Ta 152 was a short-lived, high-level interceptor fielded by the German Luftwaffe in the latter part of World W...
The Focke-Wulf Ta 152 was a short-lived, high-level interceptor fielded by the German Luftwaffe in the latter part of World W...
1944
Focke-Wulf Ta 154 Moskito (Mosquito)
The Ta 154 Moskito ("Mosquito") was another product of the Focke-Wulf aircraft design firm operating for the Third Reich. The...
The Ta 154 Moskito ("Mosquito") was another product of the Focke-Wulf aircraft design firm operating for the Third Reich. The...
1945
Focke-Wulf Ta 183 (Huckebein)
By late in World War 2, German authorities had already made a stout commitment to the production of fighters over bombers. Se...
By late in World War 2, German authorities had already made a stout commitment to the production of fighters over bombers. Se...
1944
Gloster / Armstrong Whitworth Meteor
The Gloster Meteor became Britain's first operational jet-powered fighter aircraft. It reached operational status in the latt...
The Gloster Meteor became Britain's first operational jet-powered fighter aircraft. It reached operational status in the latt...
1945
Gotha Go P.60A/B
The Gotha P.60 was a highly-modified version of the famous Horten Ho 229 "flying wing" appearing in the latter stages of Worl...
The Gotha P.60 was a highly-modified version of the famous Horten Ho 229 "flying wing" appearing in the latter stages of Worl...
1945
Gotha Go P.60C
The Gotha Project 60C nightfighter was another late-war "paper airplane" design attempt intended to defend the Reich from the...
The Gotha Project 60C nightfighter was another late-war "paper airplane" design attempt intended to defend the Reich from the...
1940
Grumman F4F Wildcat
The Grumman F4F Wildcat was the unsung hero of the Allied Pacific Theater campaign in the early years of World War 2. Often o...
The Grumman F4F Wildcat was the unsung hero of the Allied Pacific Theater campaign in the early years of World War 2. Often o...
1943
Grumman F6F Hellcat
The F6F Hellcat was the successor to - and a logical evolution of - the capable F4F Wildcat series of carrier-borne aircraft ...
The F6F Hellcat was the successor to - and a logical evolution of - the capable F4F Wildcat series of carrier-borne aircraft ...
1944
Grumman F7F Tigercat
The F7F Tigercat was another carrier-borne aircraft development in Grumman's long line of "cat" named fighters. The system wa...
The F7F Tigercat was another carrier-borne aircraft development in Grumman's long line of "cat" named fighters. The system wa...
1945
Grumman F8F Bearcat
In many ways, the Grumman F8F Bearcat was the pinnacle of United States piston-engine fighter design. The aircraft arrived wi...
In many ways, the Grumman F8F Bearcat was the pinnacle of United States piston-engine fighter design. The aircraft arrived wi...
1949
Grumman HU-16 Albatross
The Grumman HU-16 Albatross platform made appearances all across the globe with United States military forces, rescuing downe...
The Grumman HU-16 Albatross platform made appearances all across the globe with United States military forces, rescuing downe...
1942
Grumman TBF Avenger
Destined never to win beauty contests, the Grumman TBF Avenger series of aircraft would go down as one of the most potent tor...
Destined never to win beauty contests, the Grumman TBF Avenger series of aircraft would go down as one of the most potent tor...
1941
Grumman XP-50 Skyrocket
Firmly entrenched as an aircraft supplier to the United States Navy, the Grumman aircraft company set about to supply an equa...
Firmly entrenched as an aircraft supplier to the United States Navy, the Grumman aircraft company set about to supply an equa...
1940
Handley Page Halifax
While the Lancaster Heavy Bomber will always be more identifiable in terms of the British night bombing campaigns of World Wa...
While the Lancaster Heavy Bomber will always be more identifiable in terms of the British night bombing campaigns of World Wa...
1945
Hawker Sea Fury / Fury
The Hawker Sea Fury was developed out Hawker's Typhoon and Tempest aircraft designs utilized by Britain during World War 2. T...
The Hawker Sea Fury was developed out Hawker's Typhoon and Tempest aircraft designs utilized by Britain during World War 2. T...
1941
Hawker Sea Hurricane
The Hawker Sea Hurricane appeared in 1941 in an effort to protect British merchant ships from German naval attacks. Basically...
The Hawker Sea Hurricane appeared in 1941 in an effort to protect British merchant ships from German naval attacks. Basically...
1944
Hawker Tempest
The Hawker Tempest originally appeared as an improved Hawker Typhoon, the war-winning aircraft that effectively failed in its...
The Hawker Tempest originally appeared as an improved Hawker Typhoon, the war-winning aircraft that effectively failed in its...
1941
Hawker Typhoon
The Hawker Typhoon (affectionate known as the "Tiffie") was initially intended as a dedicated interceptor and set to succeed ...
The Hawker Typhoon (affectionate known as the "Tiffie") was initially intended as a dedicated interceptor and set to succeed ...
1942
Heinkel He 111 Z (Zwilling)
The He 111 Z (or "Zwilling") was an interesting, albeit bizarre, joining of two He 111 medium bombers (detailed elsewhere on ...
The He 111 Z (or "Zwilling") was an interesting, albeit bizarre, joining of two He 111 medium bombers (detailed elsewhere on ...
1945
Heinkel He 162 Volksjager (Peoples Fighter)
The He 162 Volksjager (the "People's Fighter") was developed as a quick solution to stem the tide of the major Allied advance...
The He 162 Volksjager (the "People's Fighter") was developed as a quick solution to stem the tide of the major Allied advance...
1942
Heinkel He 177 Greif (Griffin)
The Heinkel He 177 Greif (or "Griffin") was a bomber produced in limited numbers for the German Luftwaffe. By any standard, t...
The Heinkel He 177 Greif (or "Griffin") was a bomber produced in limited numbers for the German Luftwaffe. By any standard, t...
1943
Heinkel He 219 Uhu (Eagle-Owl)
The advanced Heinkel He 219 "Uhu" (meaning "Eagle-Owl") was an impressive dedicated night-fighter platform serving the intere...
The advanced Heinkel He 219 "Uhu" (meaning "Eagle-Owl") was an impressive dedicated night-fighter platform serving the intere...
1941
Heinkel He 280
Though never produced in any operational format, the Heinkel He 280 series was the world's first turbojet fighter aircraft de...
Though never produced in any operational format, the Heinkel He 280 series was the world's first turbojet fighter aircraft de...
1944
Heinkel He 343 (Strahlbomber / Strabo 16)
Towards the end of World War 2, there was a definitive shift in German thinking from piston-powered aircraft types to jet-pow...
Towards the end of World War 2, there was a definitive shift in German thinking from piston-powered aircraft types to jet-pow...
1945
Heinkel He P.1077 (Julia)
1944 proved a critical year for Germany and its fabled Luftwaffe. Once a master of the skies, advanced products fielded by th...
1944 proved a critical year for Germany and its fabled Luftwaffe. Once a master of the skies, advanced products fielded by th...
1945
Heinkel He P.1078C
Germany's Emergency Fighter Program was enacted in the middle of July in 1944 in response to the Allied bombing offensive tak...
Germany's Emergency Fighter Program was enacted in the middle of July in 1944 in response to the Allied bombing offensive tak...
1942
Henschel Hs 129
The Henschel Hs 129 fighter-bomber was built to a 1937 German specification for a twin-engine close-support aircraft with con...
The Henschel Hs 129 fighter-bomber was built to a 1937 German specification for a twin-engine close-support aircraft with con...
1945
Henschel Hs 132
The Henschel Hs 132 was another of the ambitious German jet-powered designs under development in the closing years of the Sec...
The Henschel Hs 132 was another of the ambitious German jet-powered designs under development in the closing years of the Sec...
1941
Henschel Hs P.75
The Henschel Hs P.75 appeared in 1941 as a possible contender to the outmoded and outclassed Messerschmitt BF 110 "Zerstorer"...
The Henschel Hs P.75 appeared in 1941 as a possible contender to the outmoded and outclassed Messerschmitt BF 110 "Zerstorer"...
1945
Horten Ho IX / Horten Ho 229
The Horten Ho IX (or "Horten Ho 229" - sometimes wrongly designated the "Gotha Go 229") maintains a certain level of celebrit...
The Horten Ho IX (or "Horten Ho 229" - sometimes wrongly designated the "Gotha Go 229") maintains a certain level of celebrit...
1944
Horton Ho X (10)
The Horten Ho X (10) continued the Horten Brother's love affair with the flying wing concept. The concept was notably solidif...
The Horten Ho X (10) continued the Horten Brother's love affair with the flying wing concept. The concept was notably solidif...
1945
Hughes H-4 Hercules (Spruce Goose)
The famed Hercules aircraft produced and flown only one time by Howard Hughes himself. It was commonly known as the 'Spruce G...
The famed Hercules aircraft produced and flown only one time by Howard Hughes himself. It was commonly known as the 'Spruce G...
1946
Hughes XR-11 / XF-11
Though only achieving prototype form, the XF-11 was one of the darling designs of famed American aviator Howard Hughes. Looki...
Though only achieving prototype form, the XF-11 was one of the darling designs of famed American aviator Howard Hughes. Looki...
1941
IAR 80 / IAR 81
When first unveiled in 1938, the Romanian-produced I.A.R. 80 (IAR = Industria Aeronautica Romana) piston engine, single-seat ...
When first unveiled in 1938, the Romanian-produced I.A.R. 80 (IAR = Industria Aeronautica Romana) piston engine, single-seat ...
1944
Ilyushin IL-10 (Beast)
The Ilyushin IL-10 was a follow-up design to the classic IL-2 "Shturmovik", an armored ground attack aircraft that won the ai...
The Ilyushin IL-10 was a follow-up design to the classic IL-2 "Shturmovik", an armored ground attack aircraft that won the ai...
1941
Ilyushin IL-2 Sturmovik
The Il-2 Sturmovik (or "Shturmovik") was designed as a low-level close-support aircraft capable of defeating enemy armor and ...
The Il-2 Sturmovik (or "Shturmovik") was designed as a low-level close-support aircraft capable of defeating enemy armor and ...
1949
Ilyushin IL-28 (Beagle)
The Ilyushin IL-28 (codenamed "Beagle" by NATO) holds many distinctions in the annals of aviation history - some combat relat...
The Ilyushin IL-28 (codenamed "Beagle" by NATO) holds many distinctions in the annals of aviation history - some combat relat...
1943
Junkers Ju 187
Throughout the latter half of the 1930s and into the early 1940s, the Junkers Ju 87 "Stuka" dive bomber asserted itself as on...
Throughout the latter half of the 1930s and into the early 1940s, the Junkers Ju 87 "Stuka" dive bomber asserted itself as on...
1943
Junkers Ju 188 Rache (Avenger)
When the new Junkers Ju 288 - a design meant to replace the Junkers Ju 88 series of bombers - ran into developmental issues w...
When the new Junkers Ju 288 - a design meant to replace the Junkers Ju 88 series of bombers - ran into developmental issues w...
1944
Junkers Ju 287
The Junkers Ju 287 was arguably the most unique design of all of the German jet-powered projects in development during and up...
The Junkers Ju 287 was arguably the most unique design of all of the German jet-powered projects in development during and up...
1943
Junkers Ju 390 (New York Bomber)
The German Junkers Ju 390 long range heavy bomber aircraft design was intended to be able to strike at locations along the ea...
The German Junkers Ju 390 long range heavy bomber aircraft design was intended to be able to strike at locations along the ea...
1942
Kawanishi H8K (Emily)
The Empire of Japan seemed to be producing its best aircraft designs of the war towards the end of the conflict. The Kawanish...
The Empire of Japan seemed to be producing its best aircraft designs of the war towards the end of the conflict. The Kawanish...
1943
Kawanishi N1K-J Shiden (George)
Despite some early setbacks in design, the Kawanishi N1K1-J "Shiden" (or "violet lightning" - codenamed "George" by the Allie...
Despite some early setbacks in design, the Kawanishi N1K1-J "Shiden" (or "violet lightning" - codenamed "George" by the Allie...
1945
Kawasaki Ki-100
Despite being produced in severely limited numbers (thanks in large part to the Allied bombing campaigns in the Pacific), the...
Despite being produced in severely limited numbers (thanks in large part to the Allied bombing campaigns in the Pacific), the...
1944
Kawasaki Ki-102 (Randy)
The two-seat, twin-engine Ki-102 was classified as a close-support/heavy fighter aircraft and developed by the Kawasaki conce...
The two-seat, twin-engine Ki-102 was classified as a close-support/heavy fighter aircraft and developed by the Kawasaki conce...
1944
Kawasaki Ki-45 KAIc Toryu (Nick)
Despite serving in limited numbers, fielded with no search-finding radar and appearing as the only Imperial Japanese Army nig...
Despite serving in limited numbers, fielded with no search-finding radar and appearing as the only Imperial Japanese Army nig...
1942
Kawasaki Ki-45 Toryu (Nick)
By 1937, interest in a twin-engine fighter had peaked for the Imperial Japanese Army so much so that a requirement was put fo...
By 1937, interest in a twin-engine fighter had peaked for the Imperial Japanese Army so much so that a requirement was put fo...
1943
Kawasaki Ki-61 Hien (Tony)
The Kawasaki Ki-61 Hien (meaning "Swallow" and codenamed "Tony" by the Allies) was another of the oft-forgotten yet impressiv...
The Kawasaki Ki-61 Hien (meaning "Swallow" and codenamed "Tony" by the Allies) was another of the oft-forgotten yet impressiv...
1943
Kawasaki Ki-64 (Rob)
During the height of World War 2 (1939-1945), all major participants undertook various programs to further evolve existing we...
During the height of World War 2 (1939-1945), all major participants undertook various programs to further evolve existing we...
1945
Kyushu J7W Shinden (Magnificent Lightning)
The unorthodox Kyushu J7W Shinden ("Magnificent Lightning") was a "wonder-weapon" of the Empire of Japan in the closing mon...
The unorthodox Kyushu J7W Shinden ("Magnificent Lightning") was a "wonder-weapon" of the Empire of Japan in the closing mon...
1942
Kyushu K11W Shiragiku (White Chrysanthemum)
Oft-forgotten, but no less important to the Japanese war effort of World War 2, was the Kyushu K11W Shiragiku ("White Chrysan...
Oft-forgotten, but no less important to the Japanese war effort of World War 2, was the Kyushu K11W Shiragiku ("White Chrysan...
1945
Kyushu Q1W Tokai (Eastern Sea) / (Lorna)
The Kyushu Q1W "Tokai" (translating to "Eastern Sea" and codenamed "Lorna" by the Allies) was an anti-submarine bomber utiliz...
The Kyushu Q1W "Tokai" (translating to "Eastern Sea" and codenamed "Lorna" by the Allies) was an anti-submarine bomber utiliz...
1947
Lavochkin La-11 (Fang)
The Lavochkin La-11 was designed from the successful Lavochkin La-9 series of piston engine fighters with the difference bein...
The Lavochkin La-11 was designed from the successful Lavochkin La-9 series of piston engine fighters with the difference bein...
1940
Lavochkin La-5
Design of the Lavochkin La-5 series of low-to-medium altitude fighters was spurred on by a need for equipment capable of matc...
Design of the Lavochkin La-5 series of low-to-medium altitude fighters was spurred on by a need for equipment capable of matc...
1946
Lavochkin La-9 (Fritz)
The Lavochkin La-9 series (codename "Fritz" by NATO) was a direct development of the Lavochkin La-126 prototype. In essence, ...
The Lavochkin La-9 series (codename "Fritz" by NATO) was a direct development of the Lavochkin La-126 prototype. In essence, ...
1940
Lavochkin LaGG-3
The LaGG-3 piston-engine pursuit fighter (the LaGG in the designation coming from "Lavochkin-Gorbunov-Goudkov") was one of th...
The LaGG-3 piston-engine pursuit fighter (the LaGG in the designation coming from "Lavochkin-Gorbunov-Goudkov") was one of th...
1944
Lippisch P.13A
Alexander Lippisch (1894-1976) became an important figure in aviation research, having earned his "wings" as an aerial photog...
Alexander Lippisch (1894-1976) became an important figure in aviation research, having earned his "wings" as an aerial photog...
1945
Lockheed C-69 Constellation
The Lockheed Constellation series of aircraft was a successful design that initially began as a militarized transport, appear...
The Lockheed Constellation series of aircraft was a successful design that initially began as a militarized transport, appear...
1947
Lockheed P2V Neptune
The P2V Neptune series of aircraft was one of the more successful post-war designs for America, with service that spanned dec...
The P2V Neptune series of aircraft was one of the more successful post-war designs for America, with service that spanned dec...
1945
Lockheed P-80 / F-80 Shooting Star
The Lockheed P-80/F-80 Shooting Star is undoubtedly the world's most successful first generation jet-powered fighter. Appeari...
The Lockheed P-80/F-80 Shooting Star is undoubtedly the world's most successful first generation jet-powered fighter. Appeari...
1948
Lockheed T-33 Shooting Star
During World War 2, all major participants were evolving their jet programs to gain an advantage in the ongoing effort. The m...
During World War 2, all major participants were evolving their jet programs to gain an advantage in the ongoing effort. The m...
1942
Lockheed XP-49
The XP-49 was a development of the Lockheed Corporation and a possible replacement for its successful line of P-38 Lightning ...
The XP-49 was a development of the Lockheed Corporation and a possible replacement for its successful line of P-38 Lightning ...
1944
Lockheed XP-58 Chain Lightning
The XP-58 "Chain Lightning" was initially envisioned as a larger version of the successful Lockheed P-38 Lightning twin-boom ...
The XP-58 "Chain Lightning" was initially envisioned as a larger version of the successful Lockheed P-38 Lightning twin-boom ...
1941
Macchi C.202 Folgore (Thunderbolt)
The Macchi C.202 Folgore ("Thunderbolt") served as one of the top Italian-designed fighters during the critical middle years ...
The Macchi C.202 Folgore ("Thunderbolt") served as one of the top Italian-designed fighters during the critical middle years ...
1948
Martin AM Mauler
The Martin AM Mauler was designed to a US Navy requirement during the height of World War 2. It appeared in competition with ...
The Martin AM Mauler was designed to a US Navy requirement during the height of World War 2. It appeared in competition with ...
1941
Martin B-26 Marauder
The Martin B-26 Marauder overcame a rocky start to become one of the finest medium bombers of World War 2. The aircraft was d...
The Martin B-26 Marauder overcame a rocky start to become one of the finest medium bombers of World War 2. The aircraft was d...
1941
Martin Baltimore (A-30)
The Martin-produced Baltimore was a light-to-medium class bomber whose design was based highly on the Martin "Maryland" A-22 ...
The Martin-produced Baltimore was a light-to-medium class bomber whose design was based highly on the Martin "Maryland" A-22 ...
1940
Martin Maryland (A-22)
The Martin-produced Maryland series was classified as a light bomber and saw action as a photographic reconnaissance plane th...
The Martin-produced Maryland series was classified as a light bomber and saw action as a photographic reconnaissance plane th...
1941
Martin PBM-3 / PBM-5 Mariner
The Martin PBM-3 / PBM-5 Mariner was a World War 2-era flying boat used in the maritime reconnaissance role. Martin designed ...
The Martin PBM-3 / PBM-5 Mariner was a World War 2-era flying boat used in the maritime reconnaissance role. Martin designed ...
1947
McDonnell F2H Banshee
The twin-engine, single-seat F2H Banshee was based on the successes that the McDonnell company found with the F1H Phantom ser...
The twin-engine, single-seat F2H Banshee was based on the successes that the McDonnell company found with the F1H Phantom ser...
1947
McDonnell FH Phantom (FD Phantom)
The FH-1 Phantom served with the United States Navy as their first jet-powered carrer-based aircraft up until 1950 and was in...
The FH-1 Phantom served with the United States Navy as their first jet-powered carrer-based aircraft up until 1950 and was in...
1948
McDonnell XF-85 Goblin
The XF-85 Goblin was an attempt by the McDonnell bureau to realize the dream of a "parasite fighter" program that was actuall...
The XF-85 Goblin was an attempt by the McDonnell bureau to realize the dream of a "parasite fighter" program that was actuall...
1948
McDonnell XF-88 Voodoo
World War 2 proved to American warplanners that the importance of escort fighters for their bombers could not be overstated. ...
World War 2 proved to American warplanners that the importance of escort fighters for their bombers could not be overstated. ...
1943
McDonnell XP-67 Bat / Moonbat
The XP-67 was the first attempt by the McDonnell corporation to build a fighter for the United States Military. The same corp...
The XP-67 was the first attempt by the McDonnell corporation to build a fighter for the United States Military. The same corp...
1944
Messerschmitt Me 163 Komet (Comet)
The German Messerschmitt Me 163 "Komet" was perhaps the most unique frontline, operational-level fighter design of World War ...
The German Messerschmitt Me 163 "Komet" was perhaps the most unique frontline, operational-level fighter design of World War ...
1943
Messerschmitt Me 209-II
The Messerschmitt Me 209-II was a proposed successor to the far-reaching Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighter. The Bf 109 was the sta...
The Messerschmitt Me 209-II was a proposed successor to the far-reaching Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighter. The Bf 109 was the sta...
1944
Messerschmitt Me 262 Schwalbe (Swallow)
The Me 262 Schwalbe (or "Swallow") is a good case study in the "what if" category centering around poor production design and...
The Me 262 Schwalbe (or "Swallow") is a good case study in the "what if" category centering around poor production design and...
1942
Messerschmitt Me 264 Amerika (America)
The Messerschmitt Me 264 was intended as a long-range aircraft and reconnaissance platform that was to supply the German Luft...
The Messerschmitt Me 264 was intended as a long-range aircraft and reconnaissance platform that was to supply the German Luft...
1942
Messerschmitt Me 309
The Messerschmitt Me 309 was one of two fighters (joining the later Me 209-II) developed by the German concern during World W...
The Messerschmitt Me 309 was one of two fighters (joining the later Me 209-II) developed by the German concern during World W...
1941
Messerschmitt Me 321 Gigant (Giant)
The Messerschmitt Me 321 "Gigant" ("Giant") was developed as a large cargo hauler to help supplement German airborne troop ac...
The Messerschmitt Me 321 "Gigant" ("Giant") was developed as a large cargo hauler to help supplement German airborne troop ac...
1943
Messerschmitt Me 323 Gigant (Giant)
No sooner had the Messerschmitt Me 321 unpowered glider entered service that a powered version was being requested by the Ger...
No sooner had the Messerschmitt Me 321 unpowered glider entered service that a powered version was being requested by the Ger...
1944
Messerschmitt Me 328
The "parasite" fighter had long held an interest within the minds of aircraft engineers, particularly as new methods of propu...
The "parasite" fighter had long held an interest within the minds of aircraft engineers, particularly as new methods of propu...
1943
Messerschmitt Me 410 Hornisse (Hornet)
The Messerschmitt Me 410 Hornisse ("Hornet") was, in effect, a further development of the unstable Me 210 system. Though impr...
The Messerschmitt Me 410 Hornisse ("Hornet") was, in effect, a further development of the unstable Me 210 system. Though impr...
1944
Messerschmitt Me P.1101
The Messerschmitt Me P.1101 was a swept-wing, single-seat, single-engine jet-powered fighter aircraft under development for t...
The Messerschmitt Me P.1101 was a swept-wing, single-seat, single-engine jet-powered fighter aircraft under development for t...
1944
Messerschmitt Me P.1101/92
In 1944, Messerschmitt (among other German aircraft firms) was hard at work penciling out design concepts for the German Air ...
In 1944, Messerschmitt (among other German aircraft firms) was hard at work penciling out design concepts for the German Air ...
1941
Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-1 / MiG-3
Despite being one of the fastest Soviet piston-engine designs in the early years of the war, the MiG-3 was dogged by less-tha...
Despite being one of the fastest Soviet piston-engine designs in the early years of the war, the MiG-3 was dogged by less-tha...
1949
Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-15 (Fagot)
The MiG-15 (codenamed "Fagot" by the United Nations in reference to a "hastily bundled pile of sticks") became the Soviet Uni...
The MiG-15 (codenamed "Fagot" by the United Nations in reference to a "hastily bundled pile of sticks") became the Soviet Uni...
1946
Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-9 (Fargo)
The MiG-9 (NATO codename of "Fargo") was only the second attempt by the Soviet Union at designing and producing a viable jet-...
The MiG-9 (NATO codename of "Fargo") was only the second attempt by the Soviet Union at designing and producing a viable jet-...
1942
Mitsubishi A6M Reisen (Zeke / Zero)
With a design history beginning as early as 1937, the A6M series (commonly referred to as the "Zero" or by the Allied codenam...
With a design history beginning as early as 1937, the A6M series (commonly referred to as the "Zero" or by the Allied codenam...
1945
Mitsubishi A7M Reppu (Sam)
Japanese engineers developed many fine fighter designs during the height of World War 2 including the famous "Zero" carrier-b...
Japanese engineers developed many fine fighter designs during the height of World War 2 including the famous "Zero" carrier-b...
1941
Mitsubishi G4M (Betty)
Like most of Imperial Japan's aircraft in the early stages of World War 2, the Mitsubishi G4M (codenamed "Betty" by the Allie...
Like most of Imperial Japan's aircraft in the early stages of World War 2, the Mitsubishi G4M (codenamed "Betty" by the Allie...
1942
Mitsubishi J2M Raiden (Jack)
The J2M Raiden (meaning "Thunderbolt" and codenamed "Jack" by the Allies) was primarily used as a local defense fighter by th...
The J2M Raiden (meaning "Thunderbolt" and codenamed "Jack" by the Allies) was primarily used as a local defense fighter by th...
1945
Mitsubishi J8M (Shusui)
The Empire of Japan and the nation of Germany had maintained a relationship since Prussian authorities made diplomatic contac...
The Empire of Japan and the nation of Germany had maintained a relationship since Prussian authorities made diplomatic contac...
1944
Mitsubishi Ki-109
The Mitsubishi Ki-109 was a specialized derivative of the Mitsubishi Ki-67 heavy bomber. The Ki-109 was designed specifically...
The Mitsubishi Ki-109 was a specialized derivative of the Mitsubishi Ki-67 heavy bomber. The Ki-109 was designed specifically...
1941
Mitsubishi Ki-46 (Dinah)
Since May of 1937, the Empire of Japan - both the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force and the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service...
Since May of 1937, the Empire of Japan - both the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force and the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service...
1944
Mitsubishi Ki-67 Hiryu (Peggy)
The Mitsubishi-designed Ki-67 Hiryu (translated to "flying dragon" and dubbed "Peggy" by the Allies) is oft-regarded as the b...
The Mitsubishi-designed Ki-67 Hiryu (translated to "flying dragon" and dubbed "Peggy" by the Allies) is oft-regarded as the b...
1941
Nakajima B5N (Kate)
By 1941, the B5N series of torpedo bombers were considered the best of their type anywhere in the world. The system was initi...
By 1941, the B5N series of torpedo bombers were considered the best of their type anywhere in the world. The system was initi...
1942
Nakajima B6N Tenzan (Jill)
The Nakajima B6N Tenzan (translating to "heavenly mountain") series was a capable torpedo bomber fielded by the Imperial Japa...
The Nakajima B6N Tenzan (translating to "heavenly mountain") series was a capable torpedo bomber fielded by the Imperial Japa...
1945
Nakajima G8N Renzan (Rita)
The Nakajima G8N Renzan (or "Mountain Range" - codenamed "Rita" by the Allies) was a heavy bomber design put forth by the Nak...
The Nakajima G8N Renzan (or "Mountain Range" - codenamed "Rita" by the Allies) was a heavy bomber design put forth by the Nak...
1942
Nakajima J1N Gekkou (Irving)
The Nakajima J1N1-S series was a dedicated nightfighting aircraft based on the J1N1 Gekko ("moonlight") reconnaissance aircra...
The Nakajima J1N1-S series was a dedicated nightfighting aircraft based on the J1N1 Gekko ("moonlight") reconnaissance aircra...
1945
Nakajima Ki-115 Tsurugi
The Nakajima Ki-115 Tsuguri ("Sword") was a simplistic single-seat, single-engine suicide fighter aircraft development undert...
The Nakajima Ki-115 Tsuguri ("Sword") was a simplistic single-seat, single-engine suicide fighter aircraft development undert...
1942
Nakajima Ki-43 Hayabusa (Oscar)
By 1937, it became apparent to the Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) that a more modern replacement for the Nakajima Ki-27 was nee...
By 1937, it became apparent to the Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) that a more modern replacement for the Nakajima Ki-27 was nee...
1941
Nakajima Ki-44 Shoki (Tojo)
The Nakajima Ki-44 Shoki (meaning "Demon Queller" and codenamed "Tojo" by the Allies) was a single engine monoplane intercept...
The Nakajima Ki-44 Shoki (meaning "Demon Queller" and codenamed "Tojo" by the Allies) was a single engine monoplane intercept...
1941
Nakajima Ki-49 Donryu (Helen)
The Nakajima Ki-49 Donryu (meaning "storm dragon" and codenamed "Helen" by the Allies) heavy bomber was intended as a replace...
The Nakajima Ki-49 Donryu (meaning "storm dragon" and codenamed "Helen" by the Allies) heavy bomber was intended as a replace...
1944
Nakajima Ki-84 Hayate (Frank)
Out of the many fine fighters available to the Japanese Army in the closing months of World War 2, none were of greater impor...
Out of the many fine fighters available to the Japanese Army in the closing months of World War 2, none were of greater impor...
1942
North American A-36 Apache (Invader)
The A-36 Apache was a United States Army version of the successful North American P-51 Mustang piston-engine fighter. The ori...
The A-36 Apache was a United States Army version of the successful North American P-51 Mustang piston-engine fighter. The ori...
1949
North American AJ (A-2) Savage
The AJ Savage series of aircraft was a product of the North American Aviation Company for the United States Navy following th...
The AJ Savage series of aircraft was a product of the North American Aviation Company for the United States Navy following th...
1940
North American B-25 Mitchell
The North American B-25 Mitchell series of medium bombers went on to become one of the classic American aircraft designs to e...
The North American B-25 Mitchell series of medium bombers went on to become one of the classic American aircraft designs to e...
1948
North American B-45 Tornado
Development of the XB-45 began in 1944 and continued into 1945, representing the later years of the Second World War. With re...
Development of the XB-45 began in 1944 and continued into 1945, representing the later years of the Second World War. With re...
1946
North American F-82 / P-82 Twin Mustang
The F-82 Twin Mustang was a purposely-designed aircraft charged with the purpose of providing the United States Air Force wit...
The F-82 Twin Mustang was a purposely-designed aircraft charged with the purpose of providing the United States Air Force wit...
1949
North American F-86 Sabre
The F-86 Sabre was the product of the North American Aviation Company based in the United States of America. The aircraft ser...
The F-86 Sabre was the product of the North American Aviation Company based in the United States of America. The aircraft ser...
1947
North American FJ-1 Fury
The North American FJ-1 Fury aircraft system appeared for a limited time with United States Naval air forces but was instrume...
The North American FJ-1 Fury aircraft system appeared for a limited time with United States Naval air forces but was instrume...
1940
North American P-51 / F-51 Mustang
The North American P-51 Mustang proved an invaluable addition to the Allied cause in the latter half of World War 2. The syst...
The North American P-51 Mustang proved an invaluable addition to the Allied cause in the latter half of World War 2. The syst...
1943
Northrop P-61 / F-61 Black Widow
The Northrop P-61 Black Widow became the United States' first aircraft specifically designed from the outset as a platform de...
The Northrop P-61 Black Widow became the United States' first aircraft specifically designed from the outset as a platform de...
1943
Northrop XP-56 Black Bullet
The XP-56 "Black Bullet" was designed by the Northrop company to an Army Air Corps proposal known as the R-40C. The XP-56 sto...
The XP-56 "Black Bullet" was designed by the Northrop company to an Army Air Corps proposal known as the R-40C. The XP-56 sto...
1945
Northrop XP-79
The concept of the flying wing had been around since the dawn of flight and made more so intriguing throughout the 1920s and ...
The concept of the flying wing had been around since the dawn of flight and made more so intriguing throughout the 1920s and ...
1940
Petlyakov Pe-2
The Petlyakov Pe-2 began arriving in small numbers on the East Front in the summer of 1941. The system owed its pedigree from...
The Petlyakov Pe-2 began arriving in small numbers on the East Front in the summer of 1941. The system owed its pedigree from...
1942
Piaggio P.108
The Piaggio P.108 was a multi-faceted airframe developed to fulfill a variety of roles for the Italians during World War 2. S...
The Piaggio P.108 was a multi-faceted airframe developed to fulfill a variety of roles for the Italians during World War 2. S...
1941
Piper L-4 Grasshopper
The Piper L-4 Grasshopper evolved from the successful Piper Cub series that took to the air as early as 1930. By 1941, the US...
The Piper L-4 Grasshopper evolved from the successful Piper Cub series that took to the air as early as 1930. By 1941, the US...
1943
Reggiane Re.2000 Sagittaro (Archer)
The Reggiane 2000 series of aircraft was very reminiscent of American interwar designs appearing between 1930 and 1940. The R...
The Reggiane 2000 series of aircraft was very reminiscent of American interwar designs appearing between 1930 and 1940. The R...
1947
Republic F-84 Thunderjet / Thunderstreak / Thunderflash
The Republic F-84 Thunderjet appeared as an American post-war design and played a pivotal role in the early years that was th...
The Republic F-84 Thunderjet appeared as an American post-war design and played a pivotal role in the early years that was th...
1942
Republic P-47 / F-47 Thunderbolt
While much of the romance of World War 2 dogfighting often heads in the direction of the USAAF's North American P-51 Mustang ...
While much of the romance of World War 2 dogfighting often heads in the direction of the USAAF's North American P-51 Mustang ...
1946
Republic XF-12 Rainbow
During World War 2, the Republic Aviation name was primarily tied to the excellent P-47 "Thunderbolt" fighter-bomber which pr...
During World War 2, the Republic Aviation name was primarily tied to the excellent P-47 "Thunderbolt" fighter-bomber which pr...
1944
Republic XP-72 Super Thunderbolt
The XP-72 Wasp Major Thunderbolt was intended to be an "ultimate" design of the highly successful P-47 Thunderbolt fighter-bo...
The XP-72 Wasp Major Thunderbolt was intended to be an "ultimate" design of the highly successful P-47 Thunderbolt fighter-bo...
1940
Rogozarski IK-3
When covering the range of topics concerning aviation in World War 2, it becomes accepted practice to overlook the developmen...
When covering the range of topics concerning aviation in World War 2, it becomes accepted practice to overlook the developmen...
1945
Ryan FR Fireball
The Ryan FR Fireball fighter was something of a unique creation in the annals of US Navy aviation. The fighter fielded two ...
The Ryan FR Fireball fighter was something of a unique creation in the annals of US Navy aviation. The fighter fielded two ...
1946
Ryan XF2R Dark Shark
The Ryan "Dark Shark" was an impressive developmental hybrid fighter design considered for service with both the United State...
The Ryan "Dark Shark" was an impressive developmental hybrid fighter design considered for service with both the United State...
1945
Saab J 21
The Saab 21 series of fighter aircraft was of a most unique design - in more ways then one. The system was drawn up to a 1941...
The Saab 21 series of fighter aircraft was of a most unique design - in more ways then one. The system was drawn up to a 1941...
1949
Saab J 29 Tunnan (Barrel)
The Saab-produced J 29 Tunnan (meaning "barrel" due to its stubby-like barrel appearance) was the second jet-fighter design p...
The Saab-produced J 29 Tunnan (meaning "barrel" due to its stubby-like barrel appearance) was the second jet-fighter design p...
1946
Short S45 Solent
The Short Solent was a passenger transport "flying boat" designed in the years following World War 2, when a burgeoning passe...
The Short Solent was a passenger transport "flying boat" designed in the years following World War 2, when a burgeoning passe...
1940
Short Stirling
The gangly-looking Short Sterling formed the backbone of heavy bomber groups for the RAF from the Battle of Britain on throug...
The gangly-looking Short Sterling formed the backbone of heavy bomber groups for the RAF from the Battle of Britain on throug...
1949
Short Sturgeon SB.3
The Short Sturgeon SB.3 was a set of prototypes ordered as anti-submarine warfare systems. The SB.3 was based highly on the w...
The Short Sturgeon SB.3 was a set of prototypes ordered as anti-submarine warfare systems. The SB.3 was based highly on the w...
1940
Sukhoi Su-1 / Su-3
The Su-1 (and related Su-3) fighter aircraft were short-lived prototype developments of the Soviet Sukhoi concern - essential...
The Su-1 (and related Su-3) fighter aircraft were short-lived prototype developments of the Soviet Sukhoi concern - essential...
1941
Sukhoi Su-2
The Sukhoi Su-2 was the first aircraft design of Pavel Sukhoi and became a two-seat light bomber fielded by the Soviet Air Fo...
The Sukhoi Su-2 was the first aircraft design of Pavel Sukhoi and became a two-seat light bomber fielded by the Soviet Air Fo...
1946
Sukhoi Su-9 / Su-11 / Su-13 (1946)
While the concept of the turbojet engine lingered for some time, it was not put into practical use until the latter part of t...
While the concept of the turbojet engine lingered for some time, it was not put into practical use until the latter part of t...
1942
Supermarine Seafire
When the land-based Hawker Hurricane was successfully converted into the carrier-based "Sea Hurricane", thought was given to ...
When the land-based Hawker Hurricane was successfully converted into the carrier-based "Sea Hurricane", thought was given to ...
1942
Tupolev Tu-2 (Bat)
Russian aviation engineer Andrei Tupolev would lend his surname to a plethora of Soviet-era aircraft after founding his Tupol...
Russian aviation engineer Andrei Tupolev would lend his surname to a plethora of Soviet-era aircraft after founding his Tupol...
1949
Tupolev Tu-4 (Bull)
During World War 2, the Soviet Union was threatened by both the Empire of Japan to the East and Nazi Germany to the West. Its...
During World War 2, the Soviet Union was threatened by both the Empire of Japan to the East and Nazi Germany to the West. Its...
1943
VL Myrsky (Storm)
Prior to its war with the Soviets, Finnish authorities were contemplating an indigenous fighter design to stock its fledgling...
Prior to its war with the Soviets, Finnish authorities were contemplating an indigenous fighter design to stock its fledgling...
1942
Vought F4U Corsair
The F4U Corsair series of aircraft was one of the finer fighter developments of the Second World War, primarily seeing combat...
The F4U Corsair series of aircraft was one of the finer fighter developments of the Second World War, primarily seeing combat...
1949
Vought F7U Cutlass
The Chance Vought F7U Cutlass was an interesting aircraft in many ways. For one, the aircraft was the direct result of Americ...
The Chance Vought F7U Cutlass was an interesting aircraft in many ways. For one, the aircraft was the direct result of Americ...
1940
Vought OS2U Kingfisher
The OS2U Kingfisher was a product of the Vought aircraft firm, appearing initially as the VS.310 design to which the United S...
The OS2U Kingfisher was a product of the Vought aircraft firm, appearing initially as the VS.310 design to which the United S...
1941
Vultee A-35 Vengeance
The A-35 Vengeance was a dive bomber produced by the Vultee Aircraft Company and resulted in over a thousand examples being u...
The A-35 Vengeance was a dive bomber produced by the Vultee Aircraft Company and resulted in over a thousand examples being u...
1943
Vultee XP-54 Swoose Goose
The Vultee XP-54 was one of the more distinct aircraft creations designed during World War 2. Produced through the essentiall...
The Vultee XP-54 was one of the more distinct aircraft creations designed during World War 2. Produced through the essentiall...
1945
Vultee XP-81
The Consolidated Vultee XP-81 was a proposed long-range, high-altitude fighter design that was to be the answer for bomber es...
The Consolidated Vultee XP-81 was a proposed long-range, high-altitude fighter design that was to be the answer for bomber es...
1944
Westland Welkin
With its origins in the Westland Whirlwind, the Westland Welkin (meaning "Vault of Heaven") was a twin-engined fighter design...
With its origins in the Westland Whirlwind, the Westland Welkin (meaning "Vault of Heaven") was a twin-engined fighter design...
1940
Westland Whirlwind
The Westland Whirlwind was a most capable design that might have seen even better service numbers were it not for the choice ...
The Westland Whirlwind was a most capable design that might have seen even better service numbers were it not for the choice ...
1940
Yakovlev Yak-1 (Krasavyets)
Often overshadowed by its contemporaries in the West (to include the Supermarine Spitfire, North American P-51 Mustang, Messe...
Often overshadowed by its contemporaries in the West (to include the Supermarine Spitfire, North American P-51 Mustang, Messe...
1947
Yakovlev Yak-15 (Feather)
After the fall of Germany in May of 1945, the Soviet Union (as well as the Allies) was privy to pieces of captured data regar...
After the fall of Germany in May of 1945, the Soviet Union (as well as the Allies) was privy to pieces of captured data regar...
1947
Yakovlev Yak-17
The Yak-17 was a solid operator in service with the Soviet Union. As a post-World War Two design, the system had its roots in...
The Yak-17 was a solid operator in service with the Soviet Union. As a post-World War Two design, the system had its roots in...
1947
Yakovlev Yak-23
The Yakovlev Yak-23 was the final iteration of the post-war turbojet designs beginning with the Yak-15 and continuing in the ...
The Yakovlev Yak-23 was the final iteration of the post-war turbojet designs beginning with the Yak-15 and continuing in the ...
1944
Yakovlev Yak-3
The Yakovlev Yak-3 was a further development of the Yak-1 series of fighters (detailed elsewhere on this site) and was well r...
The Yakovlev Yak-3 was a further development of the Yak-1 series of fighters (detailed elsewhere on this site) and was well r...
1943
Yakovlev Yak-9 (Frank)
In line with other classic wartime fighters of World War 2, the Yakovlev-produced Yak-9 was another excellent piston-engine a...
In line with other classic wartime fighters of World War 2, the Yakovlev-produced Yak-9 was another excellent piston-engine a...
1942
Yokosuka D4Y Suisei (Judy)
The Yokosuka D4Y Suisei (translating to "Comet" and nicknamed "Judy" by the Allies) was a capable dive bomber serving the Imp...
The Yokosuka D4Y Suisei (translating to "Comet" and nicknamed "Judy" by the Allies) was a capable dive bomber serving the Imp...
1945
Yokosuka MXY7-K1 Ohka (Cherry Blossom)
The Yokosuka MXY7 Ohka (translated to "Cherry Blossom") was a single-seat, pilot-guided suicide fighter proposed and produced...
The Yokosuka MXY7 Ohka (translated to "Cherry Blossom") was a single-seat, pilot-guided suicide fighter proposed and produced...
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