Military Fighter Aircraft
As with the bomber, the "fighter" aircraft saw its humble beginnings in the First World War, combining the pilot, his aircraft and available weaponry.
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There are a total of 358 Military Fighter Aircraft in the Military Factory. Entries are listed below in alphanumeric order. Flag images indicative of country of origin.
1984
AIDC AT-3 Tz-Chiang
The AT-3 is in a special class of aircraft that specialize in both advanced pilot training as well as light combat and includ...
The AT-3 is in a special class of aircraft that specialize in both advanced pilot training as well as light combat and includ...
1994
AIDC F-CK-1 Ching-Kuo
The F-CK-1 "Ching-Kuo" was an ambitious and indigenous multirole fighter design in the vein of the F-16 Fighting Falcon as un...
The F-CK-1 "Ching-Kuo" was an ambitious and indigenous multirole fighter design in the vein of the F-16 Fighting Falcon as un...
1915
Airco DH.2
Geoffrey de Havilland was hired by the Airco firm in June of 1914 as lead designer and quickly lent his design talents to dev...
Geoffrey de Havilland was hired by the Airco firm in June of 1914 as lead designer and quickly lent his design talents to dev...
1917
Airco DH.5
With the view afforded the pilots of the DH.2, famed aircraft designer Geoffrey de Havilland set out to create a similar, yet...
With the view afforded the pilots of the DH.2, famed aircraft designer Geoffrey de Havilland set out to create a similar, yet...
1916
Albatros D.I
The Albatros Flugzeugwerke firm certainly made a name for itself in World War 1. It was responsible for a series of well-resp...
The Albatros Flugzeugwerke firm certainly made a name for itself in World War 1. It was responsible for a series of well-resp...
1916
Albatros D.II
Albatros produced a variety of capable fighter mounts throughout World War 1 and the original D.I series proved instrumental ...
Albatros produced a variety of capable fighter mounts throughout World War 1 and the original D.I series proved instrumental ...
1917
Albatros D.III
While the Albatros D.I proved critical in winning back air superiority for the Germans in early 1917, it was not a perfect al...
While the Albatros D.I proved critical in winning back air superiority for the Germans in early 1917, it was not a perfect al...
1917
Albatros D.V
At the time of its inception, the Albatros D-series of fighter aircraft (beginning with the D.I model) was a stellar gunnery ...
At the time of its inception, the Albatros D-series of fighter aircraft (beginning with the D.I model) was a stellar gunnery ...
1917
Albatros D.Va
The Albatros D.I of 1916 proved instrumental in bringing air superiority back into the favor of the German Empire during Worl...
The Albatros D.I of 1916 proved instrumental in bringing air superiority back into the favor of the German Empire during Worl...
1990
AMX International AMX (Ghibli)
The AMX International AMX is the result of cooperation between two Italian (Aeritalia - now Alenia - and Aermacchi) and one B...
The AMX International AMX is the result of cooperation between two Italian (Aeritalia - now Alenia - and Aermacchi) and one B...
1933
ANF Les Mureaux (Series)
The ANF les Mureaux series of light observation aircraft first appeared during the inter-war years between World War 1 and Wo...
The ANF les Mureaux series of light observation aircraft first appeared during the inter-war years between World War 1 and Wo...
1918
Ansaldo A 1 Balilla (Hunter)
The Ansaldo A 1 Balilla ("Hunter") was the first aircraft fighter design of Italian origins. Italian forces consistently used...
The Ansaldo A 1 Balilla ("Hunter") was the first aircraft fighter design of Italian origins. Italian forces consistently used...
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...
1934
Arado Ar 68
The Arado-production of the Ar 68 signaled a stepping stone for fighter design in the German Luftwaffe. With the air force br...
The Arado-production of the Ar 68 signaled a stepping stone for fighter design in the German Luftwaffe. With the air force br...
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...
1936
Arado Ar E.500
The E.500 was a proposed heavy fighter design put forth by Arado Flugzeugwerke of Germany. The system was designed as early a...
The E.500 was a proposed heavy fighter design put forth by Arado Flugzeugwerke of Germany. The system was designed as early a...
1937
Arado Ar E.561
The Arado Ar E.561 was on the drawing boards as early as 1937. Classified as a heavy fighter, the type would have lived and d...
The Arado Ar E.561 was on the drawing boards as early as 1937. Classified as a heavy fighter, the type would have lived and d...
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 16/43-15
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...
1917
Armstrong Whitworth FK.8
The Armstrong Whitworth FK.8 model series was an aircraft conceived of by aircraft designer Frederick Koolhoven of Dutch orig...
The Armstrong Whitworth FK.8 model series was an aircraft conceived of by aircraft designer Frederick Koolhoven of Dutch orig...
1924
Armstrong Whitworth Siskin
The Armstrong Whitworth Siskin (a siskin being a smallish yellow-tinged finch) was the primary air mount of many-a-Royal Air ...
The Armstrong Whitworth Siskin (a siskin being a smallish yellow-tinged finch) was the primary air mount of many-a-Royal Air ...
1986
Atlas (Denel) Cheetah
The Denel (formally Atlas) Cheetah came about from a South African Air Force requirement to update or replace its series of a...
The Denel (formally Atlas) Cheetah came about from a South African Air Force requirement to update or replace its series of a...
1934
Avia B.534
The Czechoslovakian Avia B.534 series of biplane was a highly regarded though often forgotten product of the European nation....
The Czechoslovakian Avia B.534 series of biplane was a highly regarded though often forgotten product of the European nation....
1917
Aviatik D.I (Berg D.I)
The Aviatik D.I served the Austro-Hungarian Empire as a fighter and reconnaissance escort through the final years of World Wa...
The Aviatik D.I served the Austro-Hungarian Empire as a fighter and reconnaissance escort through the final years of World Wa...
1933
Avions Fairey Fox
Avions Fairey was set up in Belgium as an offshoot of the Fairey Aviation Company of Britain. The production facility was ini...
Avions Fairey was set up in Belgium as an offshoot of the Fairey Aviation Company of Britain. The production facility was ini...
1952
Avro Canada CF-100 Canuck
The Avro Canada CF-100 Canuck is an often overlooked indigenous Canadian aircraft design that performed admirably well throug...
The Avro Canada CF-100 Canuck is an often overlooked indigenous Canadian aircraft design that performed admirably well throug...
1978
BAe Sea Harrier
The arrival of the land-based Hawker Siddeley Harrier revolutionized the British military approach upon its inception into RA...
The arrival of the land-based Hawker Siddeley Harrier revolutionized the British military approach upon its inception into RA...
1917
Beardmore WB III / SB 3
The Beardmore WB III was nothing more than a highly-modified, navalized version of the successful land-based Sopwith Pup sing...
The Beardmore WB III was nothing more than a highly-modified, navalized version of the successful land-based Sopwith Pup sing...
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...
1951
Bell X-5
The X-5 was an experimental single-seat, single-engine, jet-powered fighter design prototype produced by the Bell Aircraft co...
The X-5 was an experimental single-seat, single-engine, jet-powered fighter design prototype produced by the Bell Aircraft co...
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...
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...
1939
Bloch MB.150 (Series)
The Bloch MB.150 was a family of modern, all-metal monoplane fighter types developed for the French Air Force prior to World ...
The Bloch MB.150 was a family of modern, all-metal monoplane fighter types developed for the French Air Force prior to World ...
2002
Boeing / McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Super Hornet
The Super Hornet is the latest, and most likely the ultimate, evolution in the F/A-18 Hornet series of precision strike aircr...
The Super Hornet is the latest, and most likely the ultimate, evolution in the F/A-18 Hornet series of precision strike aircr...
1976
Boeing / McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle
For a time, the McDonnell Douglas (now under Boeing) F-15 Eagle series was the pinnacle of American air superiority, incorpor...
For a time, the McDonnell Douglas (now under Boeing) F-15 Eagle series was the pinnacle of American air superiority, incorpor...
1988
Boeing / McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle
The F-15E "Strike Eagle" is a dual-role version of the highly successful base F-15 air superiority fighter. The Strike Eagle ...
The F-15E "Strike Eagle" is a dual-role version of the highly successful base F-15 air superiority fighter. The Strike Eagle ...
1983
Boeing / Northrop / McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet
The F/A-18 Hornet is a twin-engine carrier-based attack fighter currently in frontline service with a variety of forces world...
The F/A-18 Hornet is a twin-engine carrier-based attack fighter currently in frontline service with a variety of forces world...
1929
Boeing F4B
The Boeing-produced F4B series of aircraft was produced in large quantities for the United States Army and the United States ...
The Boeing-produced F4B series of aircraft was produced in large quantities for the United States Army and the United States ...
1932
Boeing P-26 Peashooter
The P-26 became the first all-metal fighter design for the United States. Appearing similar to the later "Gee Bee" series of ...
The P-26 became the first all-metal fighter design for the United States. Appearing similar to the later "Gee Bee" series of ...
1924
Boeing PW-9 (Model 15)
The Boeing PW-9 series was based on the company's "Model 15" aircraft which, in turn, held origins based in the then-excellen...
The Boeing PW-9 series was based on the company's "Model 15" aircraft which, in turn, held origins based in the then-excellen...
1937
Boulton Paul Defiant
The inter-war years saw a vast shift to more modern and potent aircraft platforms. The Boulton Paul Defiant followed as only ...
The inter-war years saw a vast shift to more modern and potent aircraft platforms. The Boulton Paul Defiant followed as only ...
1917
Breguet Bre.14
French aviation design triumphed with the arrival of the Breguet Bre.14 series (sometimes written as Breguet Br.XIV). The air...
French aviation design triumphed with the arrival of the Breguet Bre.14 series (sometimes written as Breguet Br.XIV). The air...
1937
Brewster F2A Buffalo
The stubby F2A Buffalo series became the United States Navy's first operational aircraft of monoplane design. Despite this ho...
The stubby F2A Buffalo series became the United States Navy's first operational aircraft of monoplane design. Despite this ho...
1939
Bristol Beaufighter
Serving until the 1960s with the Royal Air Force, the Bristol Beaufighter (or simply "Beau") became a national hero through h...
Serving until the 1960s with the Royal Air Force, the Bristol Beaufighter (or simply "Beau") became a national hero through h...
1929
Bristol Bulldog
In 1926, the British Air Ministry put forth a specification for a radial-piston engine fighter design that could operate in d...
In 1926, the British Air Ministry put forth a specification for a radial-piston engine fighter design that could operate in d...
1917
Bristol F.2
The Bristol F.2 fighter series operated throughout the British Empire for decades, serving through World War 1 and through th...
The Bristol F.2 fighter series operated throughout the British Empire for decades, serving through World War 1 and through th...
1914
Bristol Scout
The Bristol Scout was born from a racing aircraft and was, therefore, based upon an excellent performance pedigree. However, ...
The Bristol Scout was born from a racing aircraft and was, therefore, based upon an excellent performance pedigree. However, ...
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...
1936
Caproni AP.1
A pair of Ca.301 prototypes served as the basis for a new Italian attack aircraft. The original design sported a low-set mono...
A pair of Ca.301 prototypes served as the basis for a new Italian attack aircraft. The original design sported a low-set mono...
2005
Chengdu J-10 (Vigorous Dragon) / F-10 Vanguard
The Chengdu Jian-J10 (also "J-10" and "Annihilator" but known to the West as "Vigorous Dragon") was originally designed as an...
The Chengdu Jian-J10 (also "J-10" and "Annihilator" but known to the West as "Vigorous Dragon") was originally designed as an...
2018
Chengdu J-20 (Black Eagle)
The Chinese Chengdu J-20 "Black Eagle" is a 5th Generation fighter design exhibiting stealth characteristics not unlike the A...
The Chinese Chengdu J-20 "Black Eagle" is a 5th Generation fighter design exhibiting stealth characteristics not unlike the A...
1980
Chengdu J-7 / F-7
After World War 2 (1939-1945), China and the Soviet Union were cooperating political powers. This naturally led to China bein...
After World War 2 (1939-1945), China and the Soviet Union were cooperating political powers. This naturally led to China bein...
2010
Chengdu JF-17 Thunder (FC-1 Xiaolong)
The FC-1/JF-17 lightweight multirole combat fighter platform was developed jointly by the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corporati...
The FC-1/JF-17 lightweight multirole combat fighter platform was developed jointly by the Chengdu Aircraft Industry Corporati...
1956
Convair F-102 Delta Dagger
The Convair F-102 "Delta Dagger" was a product of the ensuing Cold War years following the close of World War 2 in which jet ...
The Convair F-102 "Delta Dagger" was a product of the ensuing Cold War years following the close of World War 2 in which jet ...
1959
Convair F-106 Delta Dart
The F-106 "Delta Dart" holds origins in the original United States Air Force requirement that produced the capable F-102 "Del...
The F-106 "Delta Dart" holds origins in the original United States Air Force requirement that produced the capable F-102 "Del...
1933
Curtiss A-12 (Shrike)
The A-12 was an inter-war product of the Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company first appearing in 1933. The type became the fir...
The A-12 was an inter-war product of the Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company first appearing in 1933. The type became the fir...
1924
Curtiss F6C HAWK
The Curtiss F6C Hawk series of aircraft was in fact the US Navy/Marine model of the US Army's P-1 Hawk series. The US Navy fo...
The Curtiss F6C Hawk series of aircraft was in fact the US Navy/Marine model of the US Army's P-1 Hawk series. The US Navy fo...
1938
Curtiss P-36 Hawk (Hawk 75 / Mohawk)
The Curtiss P-36 Hawk aircraft saw considerable operational service in the years leading up to, and during, World War 2. Its ...
The Curtiss P-36 Hawk aircraft saw considerable operational service in the years leading up to, and during, World War 2. Its ...
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...
1929
Curtiss P-6 Hawk
Originally based on the existing P-1B series of aircraft, the P-6 Hawk series was a first-line pursuit aircraft for the Unite...
Originally based on the existing P-1B series of aircraft, the P-6 Hawk series was a first-line pursuit aircraft for the Unite...
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...
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...
1958
Dassault Etendard
The base Dassault-produced Etendard (meaning "Standard") was a private venture that was initially greeted without much fervor...
The base Dassault-produced Etendard (meaning "Standard") was a private venture that was initially greeted without much fervor...
1952
Dassault MD.450 Ouragan (Hurricane)
The Dassault MD.450 "Ouragan" (meaning "Hurricane") became France's first home-grown operational, jet-powered, military comba...
The Dassault MD.450 "Ouragan" (meaning "Hurricane") became France's first home-grown operational, jet-powered, military comba...
1979
Dassault Mirage 2000
The Dassault Mirage 2000 formed a potent interceptor and strike component of the French Air Force for the last three decades....
The Dassault Mirage 2000 formed a potent interceptor and strike component of the French Air Force for the last three decades....
1973
Dassault Mirage F1
The Dassault Mirage F1 was designed to replace the successful Dassault Mirage III series. With a host of new features added t...
The Dassault Mirage F1 was designed to replace the successful Dassault Mirage III series. With a host of new features added t...
1956
Dassault Mirage III
Though now outclassed by the latest in Next Generation aircraft, the Mirage III - for a time - was the best European fighter ...
Though now outclassed by the latest in Next Generation aircraft, the Mirage III - for a time - was the best European fighter ...
1955
Dassault Mystere / Super Mystere
The Dassault-produced Mystere series of turbojet aircraft appeared just when the French nation was in the rebuilding stages f...
The Dassault-produced Mystere series of turbojet aircraft appeared just when the French nation was in the rebuilding stages f...
1998
Dassault Rafale
The Dassault Rafale, when released into operational service in the late 1990's, was the pinnacle of French aircraft engineeri...
The Dassault Rafale, when released into operational service in the late 1990's, was the pinnacle of French aircraft engineeri...
1978
Dassault Super Etendard (Standard)
The Dassault Super Etendard ("Standard") was a further development of the base Etendard platform that performed well in servi...
The Dassault Super Etendard ("Standard") was a further development of the base Etendard platform that performed well in servi...
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...
1936
Dewoitine D.500
The D.500 series, as a whole, was merely a stop-gap design for France - bridging a gap between two eras of aviation resulting...
The D.500 series, as a whole, was merely a stop-gap design for France - bridging a gap between two eras of aviation resulting...
1939
Dewoitine D.520
The Dewoitine D.520 was a single seat piston-engine fighter designed and built for the French Air Force. Developed from lesso...
The Dewoitine D.520 was a single seat piston-engine fighter designed and built for the French Air Force. Developed from lesso...
1937
Dornier Do 17 (Flying Pencil)
The Dornier Do 17 was a medium-class bomber fielded primarily by the German Luftwaffe in the years leading up to World War 2....
The Dornier Do 17 was a medium-class bomber fielded primarily by the German Luftwaffe in the years leading up to World War 2....
1939
Dornier Do 215
The Dornier Do 215 was originally intended for export, beginning life as a redesignated version of the Dornier Do 17 light/me...
The Dornier Do 215 was originally intended for export, beginning life as a redesignated version of the Dornier Do 17 light/me...
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...
1956
Douglas A-4 Skyhawk
The A-4 Skyhawk (nicknamed "Heinemann's Hot Rod" and the "Scooter") came about as a private venture when the Douglas corporat...
The A-4 Skyhawk (nicknamed "Heinemann's Hot Rod" and the "Scooter") came about as a private venture when the Douglas corporat...
1951
Douglas F3D / F-10 Skyknight
The Douglas Skyknight was a dedicated carrier-based night fighter serving with the United States Navy (USN) and Marine Corps ...
The Douglas Skyknight was a dedicated carrier-based night fighter serving with the United States Navy (USN) and Marine Corps ...
1960
English Electric / BAC Lightning
The English Electric Lightning was an impressive engineering feat for the British people. She was the first (and only) Mach 2...
The English Electric Lightning was an impressive engineering feat for the British people. She was the first (and only) Mach 2...
2003
Eurofighter Typhoon
The Eurofighter Typhoon represents much of what is both good and bad in multi-national joint ventures. While itself appearing...
The Eurofighter Typhoon represents much of what is both good and bad in multi-national joint ventures. While itself appearing...
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...
1958
Fiat Aeritalia G.91 (Gina)
The Fiat Aeritalia G.91 was an Italian Cold War-era, single-seat, jet-powered fighter design that saw an extended period of s...
The Fiat Aeritalia G.91 was an Italian Cold War-era, single-seat, jet-powered fighter design that saw an extended period of s...
1938
Fiat CR.32
Arguably the best biplane fighter of Italian design before the start of the Second World War. The plane was also built for ex...
Arguably the best biplane fighter of Italian design before the start of the Second World War. The plane was also built for ex...
1939
Fiat CR.42 Falco (Falcon)
Despite its by-gone era appearance, the Fiat CR.42 Falco (meaning "Falcon") played a crucial role in the early war years for ...
Despite its by-gone era appearance, the Fiat CR.42 Falco (meaning "Falcon") played a crucial role in the early war years for ...
1938
Fiat G.50 Freccia (Arrow)
The Fiat G.50 Freccia (meaning "Arrow") series provided the Italian Air Force with a then-modern monoplane fighter featuring ...
The Fiat G.50 Freccia (meaning "Arrow") series provided the Italian Air Force with a then-modern monoplane fighter featuring ...
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...
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...
1937
Focke-Wulf Fw 187 Falke (Falcon)
Despite demonstrating some impressive performance statistics from underpowered engines, the Focke-Wulf product Fw 187 Falke (...
Despite demonstrating some impressive performance statistics from underpowered engines, the Focke-Wulf product Fw 187 Falke (...
1939
Focke-Wulf Fw 190 Wurger (Shrike)
The Focke-Wulf Fw 190 single-seat fighter is held by some to be the best German piston fighter of the Second World War - and ...
The Focke-Wulf Fw 190 single-seat fighter is held by some to be the best German piston fighter of the Second World War - and ...
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...
1918
Fokker D.VII
The Fokker Dr.VII is now regarded as the best German fighter of the First World War. This biplane design entered development ...
The Fokker Dr.VII is now regarded as the best German fighter of the First World War. This biplane design entered development ...
1918
Fokker D.VIII
The Fokker D.VIII was a rare monoplane design of World War 1 and regarded as one of the best fighters of the German Empire in...
The Fokker D.VIII was a rare monoplane design of World War 1 and regarded as one of the best fighters of the German Empire in...
1938
Fokker D.XXI
Designed by Anthony Fokker in 1935, the Fokker D.XXI first flew on March 27th, 1936. The system was originally intended to fi...
Designed by Anthony Fokker in 1935, the Fokker D.XXI first flew on March 27th, 1936. The system was originally intended to fi...
1917
Fokker Dr.I (Dreidecker) Triplane
The Fokker Dr.I ("Dr" for "Dreidecker" meaning "triplane") series is most closely associated with Manfred von Richthofen (aka...
The Fokker Dr.I ("Dr" for "Dreidecker" meaning "triplane") series is most closely associated with Manfred von Richthofen (aka...
1915
Fokker E (Eindecker) Monoplane
As with most aircraft developed during World War 1, the Eindecker series enjoyed a relatively short period of time at the fro...
As with most aircraft developed during World War 1, the Eindecker series enjoyed a relatively short period of time at the fro...
1938
Fokker G.I (Reaper)
The Fokker G.I "Reaper" began as a private venture in 1936 under the leadership of Dr. Erich Schatzki, head engineer at Fokke...
The Fokker G.I "Reaper" began as a private venture in 1936 under the leadership of Dr. Erich Schatzki, head engineer at Fokke...
1959
Folland / Hawker-Siddeley Gnat
The Folland Gnat was a swept-wing, jet-powered fighter of British origins appearing in the middle of the 1950's. Designed as ...
The Folland Gnat was a swept-wing, jet-powered fighter of British origins appearing in the middle of the 1950's. Designed as ...
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...
1935
Gloster Gauntlet
Gloster Gauntlet origins lay in a Gloster design appearing in the late 1920's for the Royal Air Force and served throughout t...
Gloster Gauntlet origins lay in a Gloster design appearing in the late 1920's for the Royal Air Force and served throughout t...
1937
Gloster Gladiator
The Gloster Gladiator was a product of the Gloster Aircraft Company and a design of one Henry Phillip Folland. Achieving firs...
The Gloster Gladiator was a product of the Gloster Aircraft Company and a design of one Henry Phillip Folland. Achieving firs...
1956
Gloster Javelin
The Gloster Javelin was the first twin-engine delta-wing jet fighter design to take up service with any one air force. The sy...
The Gloster Javelin was the first twin-engine delta-wing jet fighter design to take up service with any one air force. The sy...
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...
1957
Grumman F11F / F-11 Tiger
The Grumman-produced F11F Tiger was designed at about the time the Grumman Cougar was already close to production. The progra...
The Grumman-produced F11F Tiger was designed at about the time the Grumman Cougar was already close to production. The progra...
1974
Grumman F-14 Tomcat
The Grumman F-14 Tomcat-series of variable-geometry wing carrier-capable interceptors is one of the true living success stori...
The Grumman F-14 Tomcat-series of variable-geometry wing carrier-capable interceptors is one of the true living success stori...
1935
Grumman F2F
Leroy Grumman designed this portly biplane fighter for the United States Navy. Grumman had already made a steady image for hi...
Leroy Grumman designed this portly biplane fighter for the United States Navy. Grumman had already made a steady image for hi...
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...
1952
Grumman F9F Cougar
The F9F Cougar was a direct and further development of the F9F Panther (detailed elsewhere on this site. The similarities bet...
The F9F Cougar was a direct and further development of the F9F Panther (detailed elsewhere on this site. The similarities bet...
1950
Grumman F9F Panther
The Grumman F9F Panther series saw extensive combat in the Korean War for the United States Navy, accounting for over 78,000 ...
The Grumman F9F Panther series saw extensive combat in the Korean War for the United States Navy, accounting for over 78,000 ...
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...
1962
HAL HF-24 Marut
The Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd HF-24 Marut was the first Indian attempt at an indigenous aircraft design since separating from...
The Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd HF-24 Marut was the first Indian attempt at an indigenous aircraft design since separating from...
2022
HAL Sukhoi PMF/FGFA
In December of 2010, it was announced that a partnership deal had been reached between the governments of India and Russia on...
In December of 2010, it was announced that a partnership deal had been reached between the governments of India and Russia on...
1918
Halberstadt CL.IV
The CL.IV was a further development of the CL.II design, both aircraft a product of Halberstadt Flugzeugwerke of Germany. The...
The CL.IV was a further development of the CL.II design, both aircraft a product of Halberstadt Flugzeugwerke of Germany. The...
1916
Hanriot HD.1
Despite its French origins, the Hanriot HD.1 biplane fighter saw extensive service with the Belgian and Italian air services ...
Despite its French origins, the Hanriot HD.1 biplane fighter saw extensive service with the Belgian and Italian air services ...
1916
Hansa-Brandenburg C.I (Type LDD)
The Hansa-Brandenburg C.I was a two-seat reconnaissance aircraft seeing action with the Austro-Hungarian Empire in World War ...
The Hansa-Brandenburg C.I was a two-seat reconnaissance aircraft seeing action with the Austro-Hungarian Empire in World War ...
1916
Hansa-Brandenburg D.I (Type KD)
The D.I was another of Ernst Heinkel's aircraft designs for the Hansa-Brandenburg firm (known formally as Hansa und Brandenbu...
The D.I was another of Ernst Heinkel's aircraft designs for the Hansa-Brandenburg firm (known formally as Hansa und Brandenbu...
1917
Hansa-Brandenburg W.12
The Hansa-Brandenburg W.12 was a two-seat floatplane fighter seaplane design serving the German Empire through the final year...
The Hansa-Brandenburg W.12 was a two-seat floatplane fighter seaplane design serving the German Empire through the final year...
1953
Hawker (Armstrong Whitworth) Sea Hawk
The Hawker Sea Hawk (also Armstrong Whitworth Sea Hawk) was a no-nonsense navy fighter aircraft designed in the latter years ...
The Hawker Sea Hawk (also Armstrong Whitworth Sea Hawk) was a no-nonsense navy fighter aircraft designed in the latter years ...
1931
Hawker Fury (I & II)
The Hawker Fury was the mainstay of Britain air defense throughout the 1930's until being replaced by the Gloster Gladiators....
The Hawker Fury was the mainstay of Britain air defense throughout the 1930's until being replaced by the Gloster Gladiators....
1956
Hawker Hunter
The Hawker Hunter was the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy jet fighter of choice for decades since its inception, becoming the ...
The Hawker Hunter was the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy jet fighter of choice for decades since its inception, becoming the ...
1937
Hawker Hurricane
The Hawker Hurricane was indeed the true star of Britain's march against the Third Reich. Often overshadowed by the sleeker a...
The Hawker Hurricane was indeed the true star of Britain's march against the Third Reich. Often overshadowed by the sleeker a...
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...
1939
Hawker Tornado
The Hawker Tornado was born of the same initiative that brought forth the Hawker Typhoon of World War 2. The initiative itsel...
The Hawker Tornado was born of the same initiative that brought forth the Hawker Typhoon of World War 2. The initiative itsel...
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 ...
1935
Heinkel He 112
The Heinkel He 112 was the only serious threat (next to the Messerschmitt Bf 109) to becoming Germany's first modern monoplan...
The Heinkel He 112 was the only serious threat (next to the Messerschmitt Bf 109) to becoming Germany's first modern monoplan...
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...
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...
1935
Heinkel He 51
The He 51 was a product of the German Heinkel firm and a design of the Gunter twins, Walter and Siegfried. The Gunters became...
The He 51 was a product of the German Heinkel firm and a design of the Gunter twins, Walter and Siegfried. The Gunters became...
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...
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"...
2007
HESA Saeqeh (Thunderbolt)
The Islamic Republic of Iran has benefited greatly from their associations with both the United States (pre-1979 revolution) ...
The Islamic Republic of Iran has benefited greatly from their associations with both the United States (pre-1979 revolution) ...
2014
HESA Shafaq (Before the Dawn)
The Shafaq (formally known as the "Integral" and translating to "Before the Dawn") is a two-seat, lightweight-class multi-rol...
The Shafaq (formally known as the "Integral" and translating to "Before the Dawn") is a two-seat, lightweight-class multi-rol...
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...
1975
IAI Kfir / F-21A
The Kfir (translated to "Lion Cub") was a semi-indigenous Israeli fighter development designed to fulfill an IAF (Israeli Air...
The Kfir (translated to "Lion Cub") was a semi-indigenous Israeli fighter development designed to fulfill an IAF (Israeli Air...
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 ...
1918
Junkers CL.I
The Junkers CL.I was a break-through aircraft design produced in limited quantities in the final year of World War One. The s...
The Junkers CL.I was a break-through aircraft design produced in limited quantities in the final year of World War One. The s...
2020
KAI KF-X
The "5th Generation Fighter" - along with the "Unmanned Aerial Vehicle" - is the current buzzword in the aviation defense ind...
The "5th Generation Fighter" - along with the "Unmanned Aerial Vehicle" - is the current buzzword in the aviation defense ind...
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...
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...
1915
Lloyd C.II
The Lloyd C.II was a reconnaissance biplane fielded by the Austro-Hungarian Empire in World War 1, with service of the type b...
The Lloyd C.II was a reconnaissance biplane fielded by the Austro-Hungarian Empire in World War 1, with service of the type b...
1958
Lockheed F-104 Starfighter
The Lockheed F-104 was in many ways an engineering marvel whose legacy suffered terribly due to several internal and external...
The Lockheed F-104 was in many ways an engineering marvel whose legacy suffered terribly due to several internal and external...
2014
Lockheed F-35 Lightning II
The Lockheed F-35 Lightning II is a fifth-generation fighter development of the United States that incorporates new and learn...
The Lockheed F-35 Lightning II is a fifth-generation fighter development of the United States that incorporates new and learn...
2005
Lockheed Martin / Boeing F-22 Raptor
The Lockheed F-22 "Raptor" represents a culmination of decades-worth of data collection, testing and evaluation for the Unite...
The Lockheed F-22 "Raptor" represents a culmination of decades-worth of data collection, testing and evaluation for the Unite...
1979
Lockheed Martin / General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon
The F-16 Fighting Falcon is one of the more successful aircraft designs of the Cold War. The system was designed in a head-to...
The F-16 Fighting Falcon is one of the more successful aircraft designs of the Cold War. The system was designed in a head-to...
1939
Lockheed P-38 Lightning
The Lockheed P-38 Lightning, nicknamed the "Fork-Tailed Devil" - Der Gabelschwanz Teufel - by the Germans, was the brainchild...
The Lockheed P-38 Lightning, nicknamed the "Fork-Tailed Devil" - Der Gabelschwanz Teufel - by the Germans, was the brainchild...
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...
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 ...
1915
LVG C.II
The LVG C.II was a limited-production reconnaissance scout plane utilized by the German Empire during World War 1. She hersel...
The LVG C.II was a limited-production reconnaissance scout plane utilized by the German Empire during World War 1. She hersel...
1917
LVG C.V
The LVG C.V was a general-purpose, two-seat reconnaissance aircraft utilized by the German air service in World War 1. Despit...
The LVG C.V was a general-purpose, two-seat reconnaissance aircraft utilized by the German air service in World War 1. Despit...
1938
Macchi C.200 Saetta (Lightning)
The Macchi M.C.200 Saetta (or "Lightning") was the main production fighter in the Italian military when Italy entered the Sec...
The Macchi M.C.200 Saetta (or "Lightning") was the main production fighter in the Italian military when Italy entered the Sec...
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 ...
1917
Macchi M.5
The Italian concern of Macchi was founded in 1912 by Giulio Macchi out of Varese, Italy. Despite Italy being a member of the ...
The Italian concern of Macchi was founded in 1912 by Giulio Macchi out of Varese, Italy. Despite Italy being a member of the ...
1918
Martinsyde F.4 Buzzard
The Martinsyde F.4 "Buzzard" was a British-designed, single-seat fighting biplane appearing in the latter months of World War...
The Martinsyde F.4 "Buzzard" was a British-designed, single-seat fighting biplane appearing in the latter months of World War...
1983
McDonnell Douglas / General Dynamics A-12 Avenger II
The McDonnell Douglas A-12 "Avenger II" was slated to become the United States Navy's (USN) first stealth aircraft. The type ...
The McDonnell Douglas A-12 "Avenger II" was slated to become the United States Navy's (USN) first stealth aircraft. The type ...
1960
McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II
Arguably one of the finest combat fighters of the 20th Century, the McDonnell F-4 Phantom II series was produced in larger nu...
Arguably one of the finest combat fighters of the 20th Century, the McDonnell F-4 Phantom II series was produced in larger nu...
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...
1953
McDonnell F3H Demon
The F3H Demon series of aircraft produced by McDonnell Aircraft was a further development of the company's expertise with car...
The F3H Demon series of aircraft produced by McDonnell Aircraft was a further development of the company's expertise with car...
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...
1937
Messerschmitt Bf 109
In the years leading up to and during World War 2, the Messerschmitt Bf 109 was the principle fighter of the German Luftwaffe...
In the years leading up to and during World War 2, the Messerschmitt Bf 109 was the principle fighter of the German Luftwaffe...
1939
Messerschmitt Bf 110 Zerstorer (Destroyer)
The twin-engine Messerschmitt Bf 110 Zerstorer (or "Destroyer" or even "Heavy Fighter" in some sources) was initially designe...
The twin-engine Messerschmitt Bf 110 Zerstorer (or "Destroyer" or even "Heavy Fighter" in some sources) was initially designe...
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 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...
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...
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 ...
1999
Mikoyan MiG 1.42 / 1.44 / MFI
Mikoyan designed the MiG 1.42 in response to a Soviet requirement for a multi-role frontline fighter through the "Multifuncti...
Mikoyan designed the MiG 1.42 in response to a Soviet requirement for a multi-role frontline fighter through the "Multifuncti...
1984
Mikoyan MiG-29 (Fulcrum)
The Mikoyan MiG-29 "Fulcrum" did much to further Soviet/Russian aviation technology and, along with the Sukhoi Su-27 "Flanker...
The Mikoyan MiG-29 "Fulcrum" did much to further Soviet/Russian aviation technology and, along with the Sukhoi Su-27 "Flanker...
2009
Mikoyan MiG-29K (Fulcrum-D)
The Mikoyan MiG-29K (NATO = "Fulcrum-D") is a navalized variant of the successful Mikoyan MiG-29 Fulcrum family of fighters. ...
The Mikoyan MiG-29K (NATO = "Fulcrum-D") is a navalized variant of the successful Mikoyan MiG-29 Fulcrum family of fighters. ...
2007
Mikoyan MiG-35 (Fulcrum-F)
The Mikoyan MiG-35 is the latest incarnation of the successful light-weight MiG-29 Fulcrum series. With an increase to its MT...
The Mikoyan MiG-35 is the latest incarnation of the successful light-weight MiG-29 Fulcrum series. With an increase to its MT...
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...
1952
Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-17 (Fresco) / Chengdu J-5
As impressive as the later versions of the MiG-15 fighter were (detailed elsewhere on this site), the MiG-17 "Fresco" was a v...
As impressive as the later versions of the MiG-15 fighter were (detailed elsewhere on this site), the MiG-17 "Fresco" was a v...
1955
Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-19 (Farmer)
The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-19 "Farmer" was an entirely new aircraft design though it shared many external similarities with the...
The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-19 "Farmer" was an entirely new aircraft design though it shared many external similarities with the...
1959
Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21 (Fishbed)
The MiG-21 was undoubtedly the most successful Cold War fighter in terms of reach, operating in over 50 air forces around the...
The MiG-21 was undoubtedly the most successful Cold War fighter in terms of reach, operating in over 50 air forces around the...
1970
Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-23 (Flogger)
The Mach 2-capable MiG-23 "Flogger" became the first "swing-wing" fighter to enter service with the Soviet Union and went on ...
The Mach 2-capable MiG-23 "Flogger" became the first "swing-wing" fighter to enter service with the Soviet Union and went on ...
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-...
1937
Mitsubishi A5M (Claude)
The Mitsubishi A5M (code-named "Claude" by the Allies) became the world's first shipborne monoplane fighter aircraft when it ...
The Mitsubishi A5M (code-named "Claude" by the Allies) became the world's first shipborne monoplane fighter aircraft when it ...
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...
1977
Mitsubishi F-1
The Mitsubishi F-1 fighter aircraft was a milestone design for the small island country as it represented the nations first a...
The Mitsubishi F-1 fighter aircraft was a milestone design for the small island country as it represented the nations first a...
2000
Mitsubishi F-2
The Mitsubishi F-2 fighter was initially to be a completely indigenous Japanese design, looking to replace their aging fleet ...
The Mitsubishi F-2 fighter was initially to be a completely indigenous Japanese design, looking to replace their aging fleet ...
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...
1938
Morane-Saulnier MS 405 / 406
The Morane-Saulnier M.S.406 was a single engine, piston-powered, single-seat fighter appearing just before the outbreak of ho...
The Morane-Saulnier M.S.406 was a single engine, piston-powered, single-seat fighter appearing just before the outbreak of ho...
1915
Morane-Saulnier Type N
The Moraine-Saulnier Type N (or simply "Moraine-Saulnier N") was a French fighter aircraft of the First World War. It appeare...
The Moraine-Saulnier Type N (or simply "Moraine-Saulnier N") was a French fighter aircraft of the First World War. It appeare...
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...
1937
Nakajima Ki-27 (Nate / Abdul)
The Nakajima Ki-27 "Nate" (known early on as "Abdul") was a successful low-monoplane, all-metal with stressed skin fighter de...
The Nakajima Ki-27 "Nate" (known early on as "Abdul") was a successful low-monoplane, all-metal with stressed skin fighter de...
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...
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...
1915
Nieuport 11 (Bebe)
The Nieuport 11 "Bebe" (or "Baby" - known officially as the "Nieuport 11 C1") was one of the first true Allied fighters of Wo...
The Nieuport 11 "Bebe" (or "Baby" - known officially as the "Nieuport 11 C1") was one of the first true Allied fighters of Wo...
1916
Nieuport 17
Fresh off of the heels of the success that was the Nieuport 11, the Nieuport 17 was a direct development intended to improve ...
Fresh off of the heels of the success that was the Nieuport 11, the Nieuport 17 was a direct development intended to improve ...
1917
Nieuport 27
The Nieuport Nie.27 (or simply Nieuport 27) was designed by Gustave Delage and became an advanced trainer and frontline fight...
The Nieuport Nie.27 (or simply Nieuport 27) was designed by Gustave Delage and became an advanced trainer and frontline fight...
1917
Nieuport 28
The French-built Nieuport 28 fighter was the third of the successful trilogy of "Nieuport Fighting Scouts" that included the ...
The French-built Nieuport 28 fighter was the third of the successful trilogy of "Nieuport Fighting Scouts" that included the ...
1923
Nieuport Nighthawk
The Nieuport Nighthawk began as a design showing great promise. Development began in 1918, the final year of World War 1, and...
The Nieuport Nighthawk began as a design showing great promise. Development began in 1918, the final year of World War 1, and...
1922
Nieuport-Delage NiD 29
World War 1 had been raging in Europe since 1914 and aircraft technology had advanced ten-fold by 1918. The French firm of Ni...
World War 1 had been raging in Europe since 1914 and aircraft technology had advanced ten-fold by 1918. The French firm of Ni...
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...
1957
North American YF-107 Ultra Sabre
The YF-107 "Ultra Sabre" prototype represented the final foray into military aviation for the North American Aircraft Corpora...
The YF-107 "Ultra Sabre" prototype represented the final foray into military aviation for the North American Aircraft Corpora...
1982
Northrop F-20 Tigershark
The F-20 Tigershark appeared on August 30th, 1982, as an "improved" version of the F-5E model in the Tiger II series. Visuall...
The F-20 Tigershark appeared on August 30th, 1982, as an "improved" version of the F-5E model in the Tiger II series. Visuall...
1962
Northrop F-5 Freedom Fighter / Tiger / Tiger II
The Northrop F-5 "Freedom Fighter" / "Tiger" / "Tiger II" series was designed from the outset as a low-cost, lightweight, mul...
The Northrop F-5 "Freedom Fighter" / "Tiger" / "Tiger II" series was designed from the outset as a low-cost, lightweight, mul...
1950
Northrop F-89 Scorpion
The Northrop F-89 Scorpion delivered a decade of service to the United States Air Force, charged with the critical defense of...
The Northrop F-89 Scorpion delivered a decade of service to the United States Air Force, charged with the critical defense of...
1990
Northrop Grumman YF-23 Black Widow II
The YF-23 Black Widow II was Northrop Grumman's (along with McDonnell Douglas Corporation) answer to the American ATF (Advanc...
The YF-23 Black Widow II was Northrop Grumman's (along with McDonnell Douglas Corporation) answer to the American ATF (Advanc...
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...
1992
Novi Avion
The Novi Avion ("New Aircraft") was a Yugoslavian effort to produce a home-grown supersonic multi-role aircraft on par with t...
The Novi Avion ("New Aircraft") was a Yugoslavian effort to produce a home-grown supersonic multi-role aircraft on par with t...
1985
Panavia Tornado ADV (Air Defense Variant)
The Panavia Tornado ADV (Air Defense Variant) was developed for the Royal Air Force (RAF) to fulfill the role of long-range, ...
The Panavia Tornado ADV (Air Defense Variant) was developed for the Royal Air Force (RAF) to fulfill the role of long-range, ...
1917
Pfalz D.III
The Pfalz D.III was an exceptional aircraft produced in large numbers by Bavaria for Bavarian forces and; later, Imperial Ger...
The Pfalz D.III was an exceptional aircraft produced in large numbers by Bavaria for Bavarian forces and; later, Imperial Ger...
1917
Phonix D (Series)
The Phonix D.I was a single-seat fighter platform developed and produced by the Phonix Flugzeug-Werke firm in Germany. The ai...
The Phonix D.I was a single-seat fighter platform developed and produced by the Phonix Flugzeug-Werke firm in Germany. The ai...
1934
Polikarpov I-15 (Chaika)
The Polikarpov I-15 was a biplane fighter aircraft designed and produced by the Soviet Union during the inter-war years. She ...
The Polikarpov I-15 was a biplane fighter aircraft designed and produced by the Soviet Union during the inter-war years. She ...
1935
Polikarpov I-16
The Polikarpov I-16 fighter proved to be quite the little aggressor before and throughout the Second World War. Initially see...
The Polikarpov I-16 fighter proved to be quite the little aggressor before and throughout the Second World War. Initially see...
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...
1958
Republic F-105 Thunderchief
The F-105 Thunderchief was a Cold War product of the Republic Aviation Corporation and became the company's last production a...
The F-105 Thunderchief was a Cold War product of the Republic Aviation Corporation and became the company's last production a...
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 ...
1955
Republic XF-84H Thunderscreech
The Republic XF-84H was an experimental airframe based on the jet-powered, single-seat Republic F-84F Thunderstreak fighter. ...
The Republic XF-84H was an experimental airframe based on the jet-powered, single-seat Republic F-84F Thunderstreak fighter. ...
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...
1977
Rockwell XFV-12
The XFV-12 aircraft was a proposed Rockwell International design to a United States Navy requirement for a VTOL (Vertical Tak...
The XFV-12 aircraft was a proposed Rockwell International design to a United States Navy requirement for a VTOL (Vertical Tak...
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...
1915
Royal Aircraft Factory F.E.2
The F.E.2 series of aircraft were produced by the Royal Aircraft Factory and had their origins in the F.E.1, a 1910 design by...
The F.E.2 series of aircraft were produced by the Royal Aircraft Factory and had their origins in the F.E.1, a 1910 design by...
1916
Royal Aircraft Factory F.E.8
The Royal Aircraft Factory F.E.8 ("F.E." for "Fighter Experimental") was developed in 1915 and released as an operational air...
The Royal Aircraft Factory F.E.8 ("F.E." for "Fighter Experimental") was developed in 1915 and released as an operational air...
1917
Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.5
The Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.5 ("S.E." for "Scout Experimental") was designed from the outset as an aircraft with a "green"...
The Royal Aircraft Factory S.E.5 ("S.E." for "Scout Experimental") was designed from the outset as an aircraft with a "green"...
1916
Rumpler 6B
The Rumpler concern has become a largely forgotten aviation manufacturer when pitted alongside the likes of Albatros and Fokk...
The Rumpler concern has become a largely forgotten aviation manufacturer when pitted alongside the likes of Albatros and Fokk...
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...
1955
Saab 32 Lansen (Lance)
By the late 1940s, the Swedish Air Force (or "Flygvapnet") was reviewing options in an effort to replace its aging series of ...
By the late 1940s, the Swedish Air Force (or "Flygvapnet") was reviewing options in an effort to replace its aging series of ...
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...
1960
Saab J 35 Draken (Dragon / Kite)
The Saab J 35 Draken (translated in English to "Dragon" but carrying the meaning of "Kite" based on the aircraft's angular re...
The Saab J 35 Draken (translated in English to "Dragon" but carrying the meaning of "Kite" based on the aircraft's angular re...
1968
Saab JA 37 Viggen (Thunderbolt)
The Saab Viggen proved to be yet another milestone in the indigenous design theories put forth by the nation of Sweden. The s...
The Saab Viggen proved to be yet another milestone in the indigenous design theories put forth by the nation of Sweden. The s...
1997
Saab JAS 39 Gripen (Griffin)
The Saab JAS 39 "Gripen" ("Griffin") forms the primary fighter wing of the Swedish Air Force (among others). The type is a hi...
The Saab JAS 39 "Gripen" ("Griffin") forms the primary fighter wing of the Swedish Air Force (among others). The type is a hi...
1998
Shenyang J-11 (Flanker B+)
The Shenyang J-11 is based on the Soviet-Russian Sukhoi Su-27 "Flanker" air-superiority fighter series with some local modifi...
The Shenyang J-11 is based on the Soviet-Russian Sukhoi Su-27 "Flanker" air-superiority fighter series with some local modifi...
2016
Shenyang J-15 (Flying Shark)
The nation of China is utilizing whatever means necessary to become a recognized world power - both economically and militari...
The nation of China is utilizing whatever means necessary to become a recognized world power - both economically and militari...
2016
Shenyang J-31 (F-60)
China has long since held a desire to showcase itself as a growing power to the world. Besides achieving a strong global econ...
China has long since held a desire to showcase itself as a growing power to the world. Besides achieving a strong global econ...
1961
Shenyang J-6 / F-6 (Farmer)
For decades China, and its regional allies, relied on the availability of their Shenyang J-6 series (NATO codename of "Farmer...
For decades China, and its regional allies, relied on the availability of their Shenyang J-6 series (NATO codename of "Farmer...
1980
Shenyang J-8 / J-8 II (Finback)
The Shenyang J-8 series (NATO codename of "Finback") was an indigenous Chinese multi-role fighter design appearing in 1980. A...
The Shenyang J-8 series (NATO codename of "Finback") was an indigenous Chinese multi-role fighter design appearing in 1980. A...
1916
Siemens-Schuckert D.I
Siemens-Schuckert D.I aircraft were in fact reverse-engineered copies of the French-made Nieuport 11. So desperate was German...
Siemens-Schuckert D.I aircraft were in fact reverse-engineered copies of the French-made Nieuport 11. So desperate was German...
1917
Siemens-Schuckert D.III
The Siemens-Schuckert D series of fighters evolved from captured French-made Nieuport 11 aircraft. The D.III appeared as an i...
The Siemens-Schuckert D series of fighters evolved from captured French-made Nieuport 11 aircraft. The D.III appeared as an i...
1918
Siemens-Schuckert D.IV
The Siemens-Schuckert D.IV was a further development of the D-series brand, itself a copy of the spectacular French Nieuport ...
The Siemens-Schuckert D.IV was a further development of the D-series brand, itself a copy of the spectacular French Nieuport ...
1916
Sopwith 1-1/2 Strutter (One-and-One-Half Strutter)
Like other Sopwith Aviation Company aircraft, the wartime Sopwith 1-1/2 Strutter owed its existence to the arrival of the Sop...
Like other Sopwith Aviation Company aircraft, the wartime Sopwith 1-1/2 Strutter owed its existence to the arrival of the Sop...
1917
Sopwith Camel
Though the Sopwith Camel (the official designation being Sopwith Biplane F.1) was designed as a replacement for the Sopwith P...
Though the Sopwith Camel (the official designation being Sopwith Biplane F.1) was designed as a replacement for the Sopwith P...
1917
Sopwith Dolphin
The Sopwith Dolphin was yet another fighter design in the long line of Thomas Sopwith production aircraft during World War 1....
The Sopwith Dolphin was yet another fighter design in the long line of Thomas Sopwith production aircraft during World War 1....
1916
Sopwith Pup
The Sopwith Pup appeared in 1916 at a time when the Allies were coming up against what would be known as the "Fokker Scourge"...
The Sopwith Pup appeared in 1916 at a time when the Allies were coming up against what would be known as the "Fokker Scourge"...
1918
Sopwith Snipe
The Sopwith Snipe took all of the components that had made the Sopwith Camel a legend in the middle years of World War 1 and ...
The Sopwith Snipe took all of the components that had made the Sopwith Camel a legend in the middle years of World War 1 and ...
1916
Sopwith Triplane
The Sopwith Triplane (dubbed the "Triplehound" by her pilots) was a three wing design built upon the successes of the Sopwith...
The Sopwith Triplane (dubbed the "Triplehound" by her pilots) was a three wing design built upon the successes of the Sopwith...
1916
SPAD S.VII
The SPAD S.VII (or "S.7") was one of France's best single-seat fighters of World War 1 (1914-1918). The type epitomized the q...
The SPAD S.VII (or "S.7") was one of France's best single-seat fighters of World War 1 (1914-1918). The type epitomized the q...
1917
SPAD S.XII
French flying ace Georges Guynemer pushed the idea of a cannon-armed fighter plane after his experiences in aircraft such as ...
French flying ace Georges Guynemer pushed the idea of a cannon-armed fighter plane after his experiences in aircraft such as ...
1917
SPAD S.XIII
The SPAD S.XIII (S.13) was a further development of the successful SPAD S.VII (S.7) design, the latter eventually becoming ou...
The SPAD S.XIII (S.13) was a further development of the successful SPAD S.VII (S.7) design, the latter eventually becoming ou...
1953
Sud-Ouest SO 4050 Vautour
These limited-production aircraft served with little distinction in French hands but were better served as night fighters and...
These limited-production aircraft served with little distinction in French hands but were better served as night fighters and...
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...
1964
Sukhoi Su-11 (Fishpot-C)
The Su-11, by any regard, is considered a potent fighter. Based on a further development of the inferior and limited Su-9, th...
The Su-11, by any regard, is considered a potent fighter. Based on a further development of the inferior and limited Su-9, th...
1967
Sukhoi Su-15 (Flagon)
The Su-15 (NATO codename of "Flagon") series of aircraft was designed by the Sukhoi firm as a true interceptor with the sole ...
The Su-15 (NATO codename of "Flagon") series of aircraft was designed by the Sukhoi firm as a true interceptor with the sole ...
1970
Sukhoi Su-17 / Su-20 / Su-22 (Fitter)
The Mach 2-capable Sukhoi Su-17 "Fitter" was a further development of the successful Su-7 "Fitter-A" fighter/fighter-bomber f...
The Mach 2-capable Sukhoi Su-17 "Fitter" was a further development of the successful Su-7 "Fitter-A" fighter/fighter-bomber f...
1973
Sukhoi Su-20 (Fitter-C)
The Su-20 was nothing more than the export version of the Su-17M / S-32M "Fitter-C" series of swing-wing aircraft which, itse...
The Su-20 was nothing more than the export version of the Su-17M / S-32M "Fitter-C" series of swing-wing aircraft which, itse...
1984
Sukhoi Su-27 (Flanker)
The Su-27 "Flanker" series of aircraft is regarded by most airplane aficionados as the ultimate in Russian fighter design. Th...
The Su-27 "Flanker" series of aircraft is regarded by most airplane aficionados as the ultimate in Russian fighter design. Th...
1996
Sukhoi Su-30 (Flanker-C)
The Sukhoi Su-30 (NATO codename of "Flanker-C") is an air superiority and strike fighter version of the Su-27 "Flanker" serie...
The Sukhoi Su-30 (NATO codename of "Flanker-C") is an air superiority and strike fighter version of the Su-27 "Flanker" serie...
1994
Sukhoi Su-33 (Flanker-D)
The Sukhoi Su-33 (NATO: "Flanker-D") represents the navalized equivalent of the land-based Russian-produced Sukhoi Su-27 "Fla...
The Sukhoi Su-33 (NATO: "Flanker-D") represents the navalized equivalent of the land-based Russian-produced Sukhoi Su-27 "Fla...
2012
Sukhoi Su-34 (Fullback)
The Sukhoi Su-34 (NATO reporting name of "Fullback") is a dedicated Fourth Generation two-seat fighter-bomber/strike fighter ...
The Sukhoi Su-34 (NATO reporting name of "Fullback") is a dedicated Fourth Generation two-seat fighter-bomber/strike fighter ...
2011
Sukhoi Su-35 (Flanker-E / Super Flanker)
The Sukhoi Su-35 (NATO: "Flanker-E") is a variant of the successful Su-27 "Flanker" family of air superiority aircraft. The...
The Sukhoi Su-35 (NATO: "Flanker-E") is a variant of the successful Su-27 "Flanker" family of air superiority aircraft. The...
1959
Sukhoi Su-7 (Fitter-A)
The Sukhoi Su-7 (NATO codename of "Fitter-A") was a single-seat, single engine jet-powered fighter in service with the Soviet...
The Sukhoi Su-7 (NATO codename of "Fitter-A") was a single-seat, single engine jet-powered fighter in service with the Soviet...
1959
Sukhoi Su-9 (Fishpot)
During the Korean War (1950-1953), the age of the jet-powered fighter had arrived. Soviet MiG-15s regularly tangled with Amer...
During the Korean War (1950-1953), the age of the jet-powered fighter had arrived. Soviet MiG-15s regularly tangled with Amer...
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...
2015
Sukhoi T-50 (PAK FA)
The PAK FA (or "PAK[FA]") is currently in development with Sukhoi OKB, a Russian aircraft firm receiving its origins during t...
The PAK FA (or "PAK[FA]") is currently in development with Sukhoi OKB, a Russian aircraft firm receiving its origins during t...
1951
Supermarine Attacker
The Supermarine Attacker was a solid, if unspectacular, aircraft that failed to make much of a splash as a jet fighter in the...
The Supermarine Attacker was a solid, if unspectacular, aircraft that failed to make much of a splash as a jet fighter in the...
1957
Supermarine Scimitar
The Supermarine Scimitar was an oft-forgotten carrier-based, jet-powered, single-seat fighter for the British Fleet Air Arm. ...
The Supermarine Scimitar was an oft-forgotten carrier-based, jet-powered, single-seat fighter for the British Fleet Air Arm. ...
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 ...
1938
Supermarine Spitfire
The Supermarine Spitfire the legendary British fighter aircraft developed prior to World War 2. The type earned its status as...
The Supermarine Spitfire the legendary British fighter aircraft developed prior to World War 2. The type earned its status as...
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...
1918
Ufag C.I
The Ufag C.I was a two-seat, single-engine biplane fighter serving the Austro-Hungarian Empire air services. The aircraft mad...
The Ufag C.I was a two-seat, single-engine biplane fighter serving the Austro-Hungarian Empire air services. The aircraft mad...
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...
1967
Vought / LTV A-7 Corsair II
The middle-weight Vought-produced A-7 Corsair II was designed as a replacement for the A-4 Skyhawk light-weight fighter / bom...
The middle-weight Vought-produced A-7 Corsair II was designed as a replacement for the A-4 Skyhawk light-weight fighter / bom...
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...
1957
Vought F-8 Crusader
The Vought-produced F-8 Crusader was a direct response to a Navy need for a supersonic carrier-based fighter platform. Utiliz...
The Vought-produced F-8 Crusader was a direct response to a Navy need for a supersonic carrier-based fighter platform. Utiliz...
1918
Vought VE-7 Bluebird
In 1917 Mr. Birdseye B. Lewis formed an aircraft business with the Vought group, becoming the Lewis & Vought Corporation in t...
In 1917 Mr. Birdseye B. Lewis formed an aircraft business with the Vought group, becoming the Lewis & Vought Corporation in t...
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 ...
1955
Yakovlev Yak-25 (Flashlight / Mandrake)
The Yak-25 (NATO codename of "Flashlight") was yet another jet fighter design introduced by the Soviets during the early deca...
The Yak-25 (NATO codename of "Flashlight") was yet another jet fighter design introduced by the Soviets during the early deca...
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...
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