WW2 Aircraft Ranked by Speed
While certainly not the single-most important quality of every fighter, speed undoubtedly helped to create a winning design.
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While speed was not the essential design quality to successful aircraft of the war, it was certainly a benefit nonetheless. The list below showcases WW2 aircraft by their reported maximum speed values. Bear in mind that the listed speeds below pertain to a specific production variant rather than to an entire family of aircraft (i.e. there were faster P-51 variants than our listed D-model, the definitive Mustang). Additionally, some developmental aircraft appearing during the war are featured in this list including many "paper-only" German jet designs.
There are a total of 353 WW2 Aircraft Ranked by Speed in the Military Factory. Entries are listed below by maximum reported speed. Flag images indicative of country of origin.
1944
684 mph (1100 kph)
Variant: Horten 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...
Variant: Horten 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...
1944
659 mph (1060 kph)
Variant: Messerschmitt Me163 B01a Komet (Comet)
The German Messerschmitt Me 163 "Komet" was perhaps the most unique frontline, operational-level fighter design of World War ...
Variant: Messerschmitt Me163 B01a Komet (Comet)
The German Messerschmitt Me 163 "Komet" was perhaps the most unique frontline, operational-level fighter design of World War ...
1944
609 mph (980 kph)
Variant: Messerschmitt Me P.1101 V1
The Messerschmitt Me P.1101 was a swept-wing, single-seat, single-engine jet-powered fighter aircraft under development for t...
Variant: Messerschmitt Me P.1101 V1
The Messerschmitt Me P.1101 was a swept-wing, single-seat, single-engine jet-powered fighter aircraft under development for t...
1945
607 mph (977 kph)
Variant: Horten Ho 229 A-0
The Horten Ho IX (or "Horten Ho 229" - sometimes wrongly designated the "Gotha Go 229") maintains a certain level of celebrit...
Variant: Horten Ho 229 A-0
The Horten Ho IX (or "Horten Ho 229" - sometimes wrongly designated the "Gotha Go 229") maintains a certain level of celebrit...
1945
605 mph (974 kph)
Variant: Gotha Go P.60C
The Gotha Project 60C nightfighter was another late-war "paper airplane" design attempt intended to defend the Reich from the...
Variant: Gotha Go P.60C
The Gotha Project 60C nightfighter was another late-war "paper airplane" design attempt intended to defend the Reich from the...
1945
593 mph (955 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1945
590 mph (950 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1945
577 mph (928 kph)
Variant: Lockheed F-80C Shooting Star
The Lockheed P-80/F-80 Shooting Star is undoubtedly the world's most successful first generation jet-powered fighter. Appeari...
Variant: Lockheed F-80C Shooting Star
The Lockheed P-80/F-80 Shooting Star is undoubtedly the world's most successful first generation jet-powered fighter. Appeari...
1943
572 mph (920 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1943
572 mph (920 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1941
559 mph (900 kph)
Variant: Heinkel He 280 V5
Though never produced in any operational format, the Heinkel He 280 series was the world's first turbojet fighter aircraft de...
Variant: Heinkel He 280 V5
Though never produced in any operational format, the Heinkel He 280 series was the world's first turbojet fighter aircraft de...
1945
559 mph (900 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1945
559 mph (900 kph)
Variant: Mitsubishi J8M1 (Shusui) (Ki-200)
The Empire of Japan and the nation of Germany had maintained a relationship since Prussian authorities made diplomatic contac...
Variant: Mitsubishi J8M1 (Shusui) (Ki-200)
The Empire of Japan and the nation of Germany had maintained a relationship since Prussian authorities made diplomatic contac...
1944
559 mph (900 kph)
Variant: 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 ...
Variant: 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 ...
1944
556 mph (895 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1945
553 mph (890 kph)
Variant: Arado Ar E.560/2
The Arado E.560 series of developmental high-speed jet bombers saw a large evolution on paper. Design of the platform centere...
Variant: Arado Ar E.560/2
The Arado E.560 series of developmental high-speed jet bombers saw a large evolution on paper. Design of the platform centere...
1945
547 mph (880 kph)
Variant: Northrop XP-79B
The concept of the flying wing had been around since the dawn of flight and made more so intriguing throughout the 1920s and ...
Variant: Northrop XP-79B
The concept of the flying wing had been around since the dawn of flight and made more so intriguing throughout the 1920s and ...
1944
541 mph (870 kph)
Variant: Messerschmitt Me 262A-1
The Me 262 Schwalbe (or "Swallow") is a good case study in the "what if" category centering around poor production design and...
Variant: Messerschmitt Me 262A-1
The Me 262 Schwalbe (or "Swallow") is a good case study in the "what if" category centering around poor production design and...
1943
534 mph (860 kph)
Variant: Arado Ar E.555-1
Arado proposed this E.555 flying wing concept towards the end of 1943 as a high-speed long-range bomber. The flying wing conc...
Variant: Arado Ar E.555-1
Arado proposed this E.555 flying wing concept towards the end of 1943 as a high-speed long-range bomber. The flying wing conc...
1944
531 mph (854 kph)
Variant: 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" ...
Variant: 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" ...
1945
522 mph (840 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1945
522 mph (840 kph)
Variant: 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 ...
Variant: 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 ...
1944
513 mph (825 kph)
Variant: Heinkel He 343 (Strahlbomber / Strabo 16)
Towards the end of World War 2, there was a definitive shift in German thinking from piston-powered aircraft types to jet-pow...
Variant: Heinkel He 343 (Strahlbomber / Strabo 16)
Towards the end of World War 2, there was a definitive shift in German thinking from piston-powered aircraft types to jet-pow...
1945
506 mph (815 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1944
497 mph (800 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1945
497 mph (800 kph)
Variant: Saab J 21RB
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...
Variant: Saab J 21RB
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...
1945
495 mph (797 kph)
Variant: Bachem Ba 349 Natter (Adder / Viper)
The Bachem Ba 349 Natter (translated to "Adder" though also known as the "Viper") was one of the late-war German aircraft ini...
Variant: Bachem Ba 349 Natter (Adder / Viper)
The Bachem Ba 349 Natter (translated to "Adder" though also known as the "Viper") was one of the late-war German aircraft ini...
1941
491 mph (790 kph)
Variant: 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"...
Variant: 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"...
1944
490 mph (788 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1945
485 mph (780 kph)
Variant: Henschel Hs 132 V1
The Henschel Hs 132 was another of the ambitious German jet-powered designs under development in the closing years of the Sec...
Variant: Henschel Hs 132 V1
The Henschel Hs 132 was another of the ambitious German jet-powered designs under development in the closing years of the Sec...
1940
478 mph (770 kph)
Variant: Arado Ar E.530
The idea of twin fuselage aircraft was always in the minds of military aircraft engineers throughout the Second World War. Co...
Variant: Arado Ar E.530
The idea of twin fuselage aircraft was always in the minds of military aircraft engineers throughout the Second World War. Co...
1945
477 mph (768 kph)
Variant: Dornier Do 335 A-0 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...
Variant: Dornier Do 335 A-0 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...
1945
472 mph (759 kph)
Variant: Focke-Wulf Ta 152H-1
The Focke-Wulf Ta 152 was a short-lived, high-level interceptor fielded by the German Luftwaffe in the latter part of World W...
Variant: Focke-Wulf Ta 152H-1
The Focke-Wulf Ta 152 was a short-lived, high-level interceptor fielded by the German Luftwaffe in the latter part of World W...
1946
470 mph (756 kph)
Variant: Republic XF-12 Rainbow
During World War 2, the Republic Aviation name was primarily tied to the excellent P-47 "Thunderbolt" fighter-bomber which pr...
Variant: Republic XF-12 Rainbow
During World War 2, the Republic Aviation name was primarily tied to the excellent P-47 "Thunderbolt" fighter-bomber which pr...
1945
466 mph (750 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1945
466 mph (750 kph)
Variant: Kyushu J7W1 Shinden (Magnificent Lightning)
The unorthodox Kyushu J7W Shinden ("Magnificent Lightning") was a "wonder-weapon" of the Empire of Japan in the closing mon...
Variant: Kyushu J7W1 Shinden (Magnificent Lightning)
The unorthodox Kyushu J7W Shinden ("Magnificent Lightning") was a "wonder-weapon" of the Empire of Japan in the closing mon...
1943
465 mph (748 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1944
462 mph (744 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1944
461 mph (742 kph)
Variant: Arado Ar 234B-2 (Blitz)
As the German Messerschmitt Me 262 "Schwalbe" ("Swallow") holds the distinction of becoming the world's first operational jet...
Variant: Arado Ar 234B-2 (Blitz)
As the German Messerschmitt Me 262 "Schwalbe" ("Swallow") holds the distinction of becoming the world's first operational jet...
1945
460 mph (740 kph)
Variant: Hawker Sea Fury FB.Mk 11
The Hawker Sea Fury was developed out Hawker's Typhoon and Tempest aircraft designs utilized by Britain during World War 2. T...
Variant: Hawker Sea Fury FB.Mk 11
The Hawker Sea Fury was developed out Hawker's Typhoon and Tempest aircraft designs utilized by Britain during World War 2. T...
1942
455 mph (733 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1946
447 mph (720 kph)
Variant: Hughes XR-11 / XF-11
Though only achieving prototype form, the XF-11 was one of the darling designs of famed American aviator Howard Hughes. Looki...
Variant: Hughes XR-11 / XF-11
Though only achieving prototype form, the XF-11 was one of the darling designs of famed American aviator Howard Hughes. Looki...
1940
437 mph (703 kph)
Variant: North American P-51D 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...
Variant: North American P-51D 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...
1944
435 mph (700 kph)
Variant: 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 ...
Variant: 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 ...
1944
435 mph (700 kph)
Variant: Hawker Tempest F.Mk V
The Hawker Tempest originally appeared as an improved Hawker Typhoon, the war-winning aircraft that effectively failed in its...
Variant: Hawker Tempest F.Mk V
The Hawker Tempest originally appeared as an improved Hawker Typhoon, the war-winning aircraft that effectively failed in its...
1939
435 mph (700 kph)
Variant: Heinkel He 176 V1
In the late 1930s, the Heinkel concern of Germany began work on the world's first all-liquid fueled rocket-propelled aircraft...
Variant: Heinkel He 176 V1
In the late 1930s, the Heinkel concern of Germany began work on the world's first all-liquid fueled rocket-propelled aircraft...
1943
434 mph (698 kph)
Variant: Yakovlev Yak-9U (Frank)
In line with other classic wartime fighters of World War 2, the Yakovlev-produced Yak-9 was another excellent piston-engine a...
Variant: Yakovlev Yak-9U (Frank)
In line with other classic wartime fighters of World War 2, the Yakovlev-produced Yak-9 was another excellent piston-engine a...
1942
433 mph (697 kph)
Variant: Republic P-47D 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 ...
Variant: Republic P-47D 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 ...
1943
429 mph (690 kph)
Variant: Kawasaki Ki-64 (Rob)
During the height of World War 2 (1939-1945), all major participants undertook various programs to further evolve existing we...
Variant: Kawasaki Ki-64 (Rob)
During the height of World War 2 (1939-1945), all major participants undertook various programs to further evolve existing we...
1945
426 mph (686 kph)
Variant: Ryan FR-1 Fireball
The Ryan FR Fireball fighter was something of a unique creation in the annals of US Navy aviation. The fighter fielded two ...
Variant: Ryan FR-1 Fireball
The Ryan FR Fireball fighter was something of a unique creation in the annals of US Navy aviation. The fighter fielded two ...
1939
426 mph (685 kph)
Variant: Focke-Wulf Fw 190D-9 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 ...
Variant: Focke-Wulf Fw 190D-9 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 ...
1941
424 mph (683 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1943
421 mph (678 kph)
Variant: Messerschmitt Me 209-II V5
The Messerschmitt Me 209-II was a proposed successor to the far-reaching Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighter. The Bf 109 was the sta...
Variant: Messerschmitt Me 209-II V5
The Messerschmitt Me 209-II was a proposed successor to the far-reaching Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighter. The Bf 109 was the sta...
1945
421 mph (677 kph)
Variant: Grumman F8F-1B Bearcat
In many ways, the Grumman F8F Bearcat was the pinnacle of United States piston-engine fighter design. The aircraft arrived wi...
Variant: Grumman F8F-1B Bearcat
In many ways, the Grumman F8F Bearcat was the pinnacle of United States piston-engine fighter design. The aircraft arrived wi...
1944
418 mph (673 kph)
Variant: Curtiss XF14C-2
Curtiss Aircraft enjoyed success with its inline piston-engined P-40 "Warhawk" series of fighters which went on to serve in m...
Variant: Curtiss XF14C-2
Curtiss Aircraft enjoyed success with its inline piston-engined P-40 "Warhawk" series of fighters which went on to serve in m...
1942
417 mph (671 kph)
Variant: Vought F4U Corsair
The F4U Corsair series of aircraft was one of the finer fighter developments of the Second World War, primarily seeing combat...
Variant: Vought F4U Corsair
The F4U Corsair series of aircraft was one of the finer fighter developments of the Second World War, primarily seeing combat...
1939
414 mph (666 kph)
Variant: Lockheed P-38J Lightning
The Lockheed P-38 Lightning, nicknamed the "Fork-Tailed Devil" - Der Gabelschwanz Teufel - by the Germans, was the brainchild...
Variant: Lockheed P-38J Lightning
The Lockheed P-38 Lightning, nicknamed the "Fork-Tailed Devil" - Der Gabelschwanz Teufel - by the Germans, was the brainchild...
1942
413 mph (664 kph)
Variant: Bell P-59A Airacomet
The Bell-produced P-59 Airacomet series is one of those aircraft that becomes more of a study in American jet pioneering than...
Variant: Bell P-59A Airacomet
The Bell-produced P-59 Airacomet series is one of those aircraft that becomes more of a study in American jet pioneering than...
1941
413 mph (664 kph)
Variant: Hawker Typhoon IB
The Hawker Typhoon (affectionate known as the "Tiffie") was initially intended as a dedicated interceptor and set to succeed ...
Variant: Hawker Typhoon IB
The Hawker Typhoon (affectionate known as the "Tiffie") was initially intended as a dedicated interceptor and set to succeed ...
1943
410 mph (660 kph)
Variant: Bell P-63C Kingcobra
At its core, the Bell P-63 Kingcobra proved a modest improvement over the relative failure that was the P-39 Airacobra. Thoug...
Variant: Bell P-63C Kingcobra
At its core, the Bell P-63 Kingcobra proved a modest improvement over the relative failure that was the P-39 Airacobra. Thoug...
1944
410 mph (660 kph)
Variant: Gloster / Armstrong Whitworth Meteor F.Mk 1
The Gloster Meteor became Britain's first operational jet-powered fighter aircraft. It reached operational status in the latt...
Variant: Gloster / Armstrong Whitworth Meteor F.Mk 1
The Gloster Meteor became Britain's first operational jet-powered fighter aircraft. It reached operational status in the latt...
1942
407 mph (655 kph)
Variant: de Havilland Mosquito NF.Mk 30
Discussions of war-winning World War 2 aircraft regularly seem to leave out one of the most famous and successful of the conf...
Variant: de Havilland Mosquito NF.Mk 30
Discussions of war-winning World War 2 aircraft regularly seem to leave out one of the most famous and successful of the conf...
1944
407 mph (655 kph)
Variant: Yakovlex 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...
Variant: Yakovlex 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...
1942
405 mph (651 kph)
Variant: 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 ...
Variant: 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 ...
1945
404 mph (650 kph)
Variant: Yokosuka MXY7-K1 Ohka (Cherry Blossom) Model 11
The Yokosuka MXY7 Ohka (translated to "Cherry Blossom") was a single-seat, pilot-guided suicide fighter proposed and produced...
Variant: Yokosuka MXY7-K1 Ohka (Cherry Blossom) Model 11
The Yokosuka MXY7 Ohka (translated to "Cherry Blossom") was a single-seat, pilot-guided suicide fighter proposed and produced...
1943
404 mph (650 kph)
Variant: Fisher P-75A Eagle
General Motors became a major player in the American manufacturing realm when World War 2 arrived for the United States. With...
Variant: Fisher P-75A Eagle
General Motors became a major player in the American manufacturing realm when World War 2 arrived for the United States. With...
1944
404 mph (650 kph)
Variant: Fieseler Fi 103R-IV (Reichenberg)
The Fiseler Fi 103R was, in essence, the piloted form of the successful V-1 rocket that terrorized London citizens throughout...
Variant: Fieseler Fi 103R-IV (Reichenberg)
The Fiseler Fi 103R was, in essence, the piloted form of the successful V-1 rocket that terrorized London citizens throughout...
1940
402 mph (647 kph)
Variant: Lavochkin La-5FN
Design of the Lavochkin La-5 series of low-to-medium altitude fighters was spurred on by a need for equipment capable of matc...
Variant: Lavochkin La-5FN
Design of the Lavochkin La-5 series of low-to-medium altitude fighters was spurred on by a need for equipment capable of matc...
1939
398 mph (641 kph)
Variant: Hawker Tornado
The Hawker Tornado was born of the same initiative that brought forth the Hawker Typhoon of World War 2. The initiative itsel...
Variant: Hawker Tornado
The Hawker Tornado was born of the same initiative that brought forth the Hawker Typhoon of World War 2. The initiative itsel...
1940
398 mph (640 kph)
Variant: Sukhoi Su-1
The Su-1 (and related Su-3) fighter aircraft were short-lived prototype developments of the Soviet Sukhoi concern - essential...
Variant: Sukhoi Su-1
The Su-1 (and related Su-3) fighter aircraft were short-lived prototype developments of the Soviet Sukhoi concern - essential...
1941
398 mph (640 kph)
Variant: Mikoyan-Gurevich 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...
Variant: Mikoyan-Gurevich 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...
1945
396 mph (637 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1944
395 mph (635 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1944
392 mph (631 kph)
Variant: Nakajima Ki-84-Ia 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...
Variant: Nakajima Ki-84-Ia 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...
1941
391 mph (630 kph)
Variant: Mitsubishi Ki-46-III-KAI (Dinah)
Since May of 1937, the Empire of Japan - both the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force and the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service...
Variant: Mitsubishi Ki-46-III-KAI (Dinah)
Since May of 1937, the Empire of Japan - both the Imperial Japanese Army Air Force and the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service...
1943
391 mph (630 kph)
Variant: Reggiane Re.2005 Sagittaro (Archer)
The Reggiane 2000 series of aircraft was very reminiscent of American interwar designs appearing between 1930 and 1940. The R...
Variant: Reggiane Re.2005 Sagittaro (Archer)
The Reggiane 2000 series of aircraft was very reminiscent of American interwar designs appearing between 1930 and 1940. The R...
1945
391 mph (630 kph)
Variant: Mitsubishi A7M2 Reppu (Sam)
Japanese engineers developed many fine fighter designs during the height of World War 2 including the famous "Zero" carrier-b...
Variant: Mitsubishi A7M2 Reppu (Sam)
Japanese engineers developed many fine fighter designs during the height of World War 2 including the famous "Zero" carrier-b...
1943
390 mph (628 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1944
388 mph (625 kph)
Variant: Westland Welkin F.Mk I
With its origins in the Westland Whirlwind, the Westland Welkin (meaning "Vault of Heaven") was a twin-engined fighter design...
Variant: Westland Welkin F.Mk I
With its origins in the Westland Whirlwind, the Westland Welkin (meaning "Vault of Heaven") was a twin-engined fighter design...
1943
388 mph (624 kph)
Variant: Messerschmitt Me 410 A-1 Hornisse (Hornet)
The Messerschmitt Me 410 Hornisse ("Hornet") was, in effect, a further development of the unstable Me 210 system. Though impr...
Variant: Messerschmitt Me 410 A-1 Hornisse (Hornet)
The Messerschmitt Me 410 Hornisse ("Hornet") was, in effect, a further development of the unstable Me 210 system. Though impr...
1943
387 mph (623 kph)
Variant: Fiat G.55/1 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...
Variant: Fiat G.55/1 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...
1941
386 mph (621 kph)
Variant: Bell P-39M 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...
Variant: Bell P-39M 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...
1942
385 mph (620 kph)
Variant: Focke-Wulf Fw 191
The Fw 191 was the Focke-Wulf submission to the German Air Ministry's "Bomber B" program of 1939. Authorities were sold on th...
Variant: Focke-Wulf Fw 191
The Fw 191 was the Focke-Wulf submission to the German Air Ministry's "Bomber B" program of 1939. Authorities were sold on th...
1948
384 mph (618 kph)
Variant: Martin AM Mauler
The Martin AM Mauler was designed to a US Navy requirement during the height of World War 2. It appeared in competition with ...
Variant: Martin AM Mauler
The Martin AM Mauler was designed to a US Navy requirement during the height of World War 2. It appeared in competition with ...
1940
384 mph (618 kph)
Variant: Arado Ar 240 A-0
The Arado Ar 240 was designed to an RLM 1938 response to replace the twin engine, two seat Messerschmitt BF 110 Zerstorer hea...
Variant: Arado Ar 240 A-0
The Arado Ar 240 was designed to an RLM 1938 response to replace the twin engine, two seat Messerschmitt BF 110 Zerstorer hea...
1943
383 mph (616 kph)
Variant: Heinkel He 219 A-7/R2 Uhu (Eagle-Owl)
The advanced Heinkel He 219 "Uhu" (meaning "Eagle-Owl") was an impressive dedicated night-fighter platform serving the intere...
Variant: Heinkel He 219 A-7/R2 Uhu (Eagle-Owl)
The advanced Heinkel He 219 "Uhu" (meaning "Eagle-Owl") was an impressive dedicated night-fighter platform serving the intere...
1943
380 mph (611 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1943
380 mph (611 kph)
Variant: Grumman F6F-5 Hellcat
The F6F Hellcat was the successor to - and a logical evolution of - the capable F4F Wildcat series of carrier-borne aircraft ...
Variant: Grumman F6F-5 Hellcat
The F6F Hellcat was the successor to - and a logical evolution of - the capable F4F Wildcat series of carrier-borne aircraft ...
1941
378 mph (609 kph)
Variant: Curtiss P-40N / Kittyhawk IV
The P-40 Warhawk / Kittyhawk / Tomahawk series of aircraft was the further development of the P-36 Hawk platform (detailed el...
Variant: Curtiss P-40N / Kittyhawk IV
The P-40 Warhawk / Kittyhawk / Tomahawk series of aircraft was the further development of the P-36 Hawk platform (detailed el...
1941
376 mph (605 kph)
Variant: Nakajima Ki-44-IIb Shoki (Tojo)
The Nakajima Ki-44 Shoki (meaning "Demon Queller" and codenamed "Tojo" by the Allies) was a single engine monoplane intercept...
Variant: Nakajima Ki-44-IIb Shoki (Tojo)
The Nakajima Ki-44 Shoki (meaning "Demon Queller" and codenamed "Tojo" by the Allies) was a single engine monoplane intercept...
1944
375 mph (604 kph)
Variant: Messerschmitt Me 328
The "parasite" fighter had long held an interest within the minds of aircraft engineers, particularly as new methods of propu...
Variant: Messerschmitt Me 328
The "parasite" fighter had long held an interest within the minds of aircraft engineers, particularly as new methods of propu...
1944
370 mph (595 kph)
Variant: Beechcraft XA-38 Gizzly / Destroyer (Model 28)
The XA-38 was a developmental twin-engine heavy fighter produced by the Beech Aircraft firm. By all accounts, she was a stabl...
Variant: Beechcraft XA-38 Gizzly / Destroyer (Model 28)
The XA-38 was a developmental twin-engine heavy fighter produced by the Beech Aircraft firm. By all accounts, she was a stabl...
1941
370 mph (595 kph)
Variant: 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 ...
Variant: 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 ...
1942
370 mph (595 kph)
Variant: Mitsubishi J2M3 Raiden (Jack)
The J2M Raiden (meaning "Thunderbolt" and codenamed "Jack" by the Allies) was primarily used as a local defense fighter by th...
Variant: Mitsubishi J2M3 Raiden (Jack)
The J2M Raiden (meaning "Thunderbolt" and codenamed "Jack" by the Allies) was primarily used as a local defense fighter by th...
1938
369 mph (594 kph)
Variant: Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Va
The Supermarine Spitfire the legendary British fighter aircraft developed prior to World War 2. The type earned its status as...
Variant: Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Va
The Supermarine Spitfire the legendary British fighter aircraft developed prior to World War 2. The type earned its status as...
1940
368 mph (592 kph)
Variant: Yakovlev Yak-1B (Krasavyets)
Often overshadowed by its contemporaries in the West (to include the Supermarine Spitfire, North American P-51 Mustang, Messe...
Variant: Yakovlev Yak-1B (Krasavyets)
Often overshadowed by its contemporaries in the West (to include the Supermarine Spitfire, North American P-51 Mustang, Messe...
1943
367 mph (590 kph)
Variant: Kawasaki Ki-61-1 KAIc Hien (Tony)
The Kawasaki Ki-61 Hien (meaning "Swallow" and codenamed "Tony" by the Allies) was another of the oft-forgotten yet impressiv...
Variant: Kawasaki Ki-61-1 KAIc Hien (Tony)
The Kawasaki Ki-61 Hien (meaning "Swallow" and codenamed "Tony" by the Allies) was another of the oft-forgotten yet impressiv...
1945
367 mph (590 kph)
Variant: Kawasaki Ki-100-Ib
Despite being produced in severely limited numbers (thanks in large part to the Allied bombing campaigns in the Pacific), the...
Variant: Kawasaki Ki-100-Ib
Despite being produced in severely limited numbers (thanks in large part to the Allied bombing campaigns in the Pacific), the...
1943
366 mph (589 kph)
Variant: Northrop P-61B Black Widow
The Northrop P-61 Black Widow became the United States' first aircraft specifically designed from the outset as a platform de...
Variant: Northrop P-61B Black Widow
The Northrop P-61 Black Widow became the United States' first aircraft specifically designed from the outset as a platform de...
1942
365 mph (587 kph)
Variant: North American A-36A Apache (Invader)
The A-36 Apache was a United States Army version of the successful North American P-51 Mustang piston-engine fighter. The ori...
Variant: North American A-36A Apache (Invader)
The A-36 Apache was a United States Army version of the successful North American P-51 Mustang piston-engine fighter. The ori...
1943
363 mph (584 kph)
Variant: Kawanishi N1K1-J Shiden (George)
Despite some early setbacks in design, the Kawanishi N1K1-J "Shiden" (or "violet lightning" - codenamed "George" by the Allie...
Variant: Kawanishi N1K1-J Shiden (George)
Despite some early setbacks in design, the Kawanishi N1K1-J "Shiden" (or "violet lightning" - codenamed "George" by the Allie...
1939
360 mph (580 kph)
Variant: Heinkel He 178
The Heinkel-produced He 178 has the distinct honor of becoming the world's first aircraft to fly solely with a turbojet engin...
Variant: Heinkel He 178
The Heinkel-produced He 178 has the distinct honor of becoming the world's first aircraft to fly solely with a turbojet engin...
1940
360 mph (580 kph)
Variant: Westland Whirlwind Mk I
The Westland Whirlwind was a most capable design that might have seen even better service numbers were it not for the choice ...
Variant: Westland Whirlwind Mk I
The Westland Whirlwind was a most capable design that might have seen even better service numbers were it not for the choice ...
1943
360 mph (580 kph)
Variant: Arado Ar E.340
The Arado-produced Ar E.340 was designed to a German requirement for a twin-engined bomber to replace the aging Junkers Ju 88...
Variant: Arado Ar E.340
The Arado-produced Ar E.340 was designed to a German requirement for a twin-engined bomber to replace the aging Junkers Ju 88...
1944
360 mph (580 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1937
359 mph (578 kph)
Variant: Messerschmitt Bf 109E-7
In the years leading up to and during World War 2, the Messerschmitt Bf 109 was the principle fighter of the German Luftwaffe...
Variant: Messerschmitt Bf 109E-7
In the years leading up to and during World War 2, the Messerschmitt Bf 109 was the principle fighter of the German Luftwaffe...
1943
358 mph (576 kph)
Variant: Boeing B-29A Superfortress
B-29 Superfortress status is often associated with the atomic bombs dropped on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki ...
Variant: Boeing B-29A Superfortress
B-29 Superfortress status is often associated with the atomic bombs dropped on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki ...
1945
358 mph (576 kph)
Variant: Nakajima G8N1 Renzan (Rita)
The Nakajima G8N Renzan (or "Mountain Range" - codenamed "Rita" by the Allies) was a heavy bomber design put forth by the Nak...
Variant: Nakajima G8N1 Renzan (Rita)
The Nakajima G8N Renzan (or "Mountain Range" - codenamed "Rita" by the Allies) was a heavy bomber design put forth by the Nak...
1942
357 mph (575 kph)
Variant: Yokosuka D4Y3 Suisei (Judy)
The Yokosuka D4Y Suisei (translating to "Comet" and nicknamed "Judy" by the Allies) was a capable dive bomber serving the Imp...
Variant: Yokosuka D4Y3 Suisei (Judy)
The Yokosuka D4Y Suisei (translating to "Comet" and nicknamed "Judy" by the Allies) was a capable dive bomber serving the Imp...
1940
357 mph (575 kph)
Variant: Lavochkin LaGG-3
The LaGG-3 piston-engine pursuit fighter (the LaGG in the designation coming from "Lavochkin-Gorbunov-Goudkov") was one of th...
Variant: Lavochkin LaGG-3
The LaGG-3 piston-engine pursuit fighter (the LaGG in the designation coming from "Lavochkin-Gorbunov-Goudkov") was one of th...
1945
357 mph (575 kph)
Variant: Consolidated B-32 Dominator
The Consolidated B-32 Dominator was a limited production four-engine heavy bomber requested by the United States Air Force as...
Variant: Consolidated B-32 Dominator
The Consolidated B-32 Dominator was a limited production four-engine heavy bomber requested by the United States Air Force as...
1941
355 mph (571 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1944
355 mph (571 kph)
Variant: Douglas A-26B Invader
The Douglas A-26 Invader was a distinguished twin-engine light bomber whose origins were well-placed in the Second World War....
Variant: Douglas A-26B Invader
The Douglas A-26 Invader was a distinguished twin-engine light bomber whose origins were well-placed in the Second World War....
1942
354 mph (570 kph)
Variant: Mitsubishi A6M5 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...
Variant: Mitsubishi A6M5 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...
1944
352 mph (566 kph)
Variant: Aichi B7A Ryusei (Grace)
The Aichi-produced B7A Ryusei (translated to "Shooting Star" and nicknamed "Grace" by the Allies) was a limited-production to...
Variant: Aichi B7A Ryusei (Grace)
The Aichi-produced B7A Ryusei (translated to "Shooting Star" and nicknamed "Grace" by the Allies) was a limited-production to...
1942
348 mph (560 kph)
Variant: Messerschmitt Me 264 Amerika (America)
The Messerschmitt Me 264 was intended as a long-range aircraft and reconnaissance platform that was to supply the German Luft...
Variant: Messerschmitt Me 264 Amerika (America)
The Messerschmitt Me 264 was intended as a long-range aircraft and reconnaissance platform that was to supply the German Luft...
1942
348 mph (560 kph)
Variant: Dornier Do 217M-1
The Dornier Do 217 was a multi-faceted performer for the German Luftwaffe that ended up fulfilling various roles from bomber ...
Variant: Dornier Do 217M-1
The Dornier Do 217 was a multi-faceted performer for the German Luftwaffe that ended up fulfilling various roles from bomber ...
1942
348 mph (560 kph)
Variant: Supermarine Seafire F.Mk III
When the land-based Hawker Hurricane was successfully converted into the carrier-based "Sea Hurricane", thought was given to ...
Variant: Supermarine Seafire F.Mk III
When the land-based Hawker Hurricane was successfully converted into the carrier-based "Sea Hurricane", thought was given to ...
1944
347 mph (559 kph)
Variant: Junkers Ju 287
The Junkers Ju 287 was arguably the most unique design of all of the German jet-powered projects in development during and up...
Variant: Junkers Ju 287
The Junkers Ju 287 was arguably the most unique design of all of the German jet-powered projects in development during and up...
1945
346 mph (557 kph)
Variant: Lockheed L749 Constellation
The Lockheed Constellation series of aircraft was a successful design that initially began as a militarized transport, appear...
Variant: Lockheed L749 Constellation
The Lockheed Constellation series of aircraft was a successful design that initially began as a militarized transport, appear...
1939
342 mph (550 kph)
Variant: Messerschmitt Bf 110G/R3 Zerstorer (Destroyer)
The twin-engine Messerschmitt Bf 110 Zerstorer (or "Destroyer" or even "Heavy Fighter" in some sources) was initially designe...
Variant: Messerschmitt Bf 110G/R3 Zerstorer (Destroyer)
The twin-engine Messerschmitt Bf 110 Zerstorer (or "Destroyer" or even "Heavy Fighter" in some sources) was initially designe...
1944
342 mph (550 kph)
Variant: Mitsubishi Ki-109
The Mitsubishi Ki-109 was a specialized derivative of the Mitsubishi Ki-67 heavy bomber. The Ki-109 was designed specifically...
Variant: Mitsubishi Ki-109
The Mitsubishi Ki-109 was a specialized derivative of the Mitsubishi Ki-67 heavy bomber. The Ki-109 was designed specifically...
1945
342 mph (550 kph)
Variant: Nakajima Ki-115 Tsurugi
The Nakajima Ki-115 Tsuguri ("Sword") was a simplistic single-seat, single-engine suicide fighter aircraft development undert...
Variant: Nakajima Ki-115 Tsurugi
The Nakajima Ki-115 Tsuguri ("Sword") was a simplistic single-seat, single-engine suicide fighter aircraft development undert...
1941
339 mph (545 kph)
Variant: Douglas A-20G Havoc
The Douglas A-20 Havoc served Allied forces through most of World War 2, fighting for British, American and Soviet forces. Th...
Variant: Douglas A-20G Havoc
The Douglas A-20 Havoc served Allied forces through most of World War 2, fighting for British, American and Soviet forces. Th...
1940
336 mph (541 kph)
Variant: Bell XFL-1 Airabonita
The XFL "Airabonita" was a Bell Aircraft Company product developed in parallel with the P-39 Airacobra, a land-based USAAF de...
Variant: Bell XFL-1 Airabonita
The XFL "Airabonita" was a Bell Aircraft Company product developed in parallel with the P-39 Airacobra, a land-based USAAF de...
1939
336 mph (540 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1944
336 mph (540 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1942
336 mph (540 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1940
336 mph (540 kph)
Variant: Petlyakov Pe-2
The Petlyakov Pe-2 began arriving in small numbers on the East Front in the summer of 1941. The system owed its pedigree from...
Variant: Petlyakov Pe-2
The Petlyakov Pe-2 began arriving in small numbers on the East Front in the summer of 1941. The system owed its pedigree from...
1944
334 mph (537 kph)
Variant: Mitsubishi Ki-67 Hiryu
The Mitsubishi-designed Ki-67 Hiryu (translated to "flying dragon" and dubbed "Peggy" by the Allies) is oft-regarded as the b...
Variant: Mitsubishi Ki-67 Hiryu
The Mitsubishi-designed Ki-67 Hiryu (translated to "flying dragon" and dubbed "Peggy" by the Allies) is oft-regarded as the b...
1939
333 mph (536 kph)
Variant: Bristol Beaufighter VIF
Serving until the 1960s with the Royal Air Force, the Bristol Beaufighter (or simply "Beau") became a national hero through h...
Variant: Bristol Beaufighter VIF
Serving until the 1960s with the Royal Air Force, the Bristol Beaufighter (or simply "Beau") became a national hero through h...
1940
332 mph (534 kph)
Variant: Grumman FM-2 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...
Variant: Grumman FM-2 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...
1942
329 mph (530 kph)
Variant: Nakajima Ki-43-II 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...
Variant: Nakajima Ki-43-II 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...
1943
329 mph (529 kph)
Variant: VL Myrsky (Storm)
Prior to its war with the Soviets, Finnish authorities were contemplating an indigenous fighter design to stock its fledgling...
Variant: VL Myrsky (Storm)
Prior to its war with the Soviets, Finnish authorities were contemplating an indigenous fighter design to stock its fledgling...
1937
329 mph (529 kph)
Variant: Focke-Wulf Fw 187A-0 Falke (Falcon)
Despite demonstrating some impressive performance statistics from underpowered engines, the Focke-Wulf product Fw 187 Falke (...
Variant: Focke-Wulf Fw 187A-0 Falke (Falcon)
Despite demonstrating some impressive performance statistics from underpowered engines, the Focke-Wulf product Fw 187 Falke (...
1940
327 mph (526 kph)
Variant: Rogozarski IK-3
When covering the range of topics concerning aviation in World War 2, it becomes accepted practice to overlook the developmen...
Variant: Rogozarski IK-3
When covering the range of topics concerning aviation in World War 2, it becomes accepted practice to overlook the developmen...
1942
324 mph (521 kph)
Variant: Tupolev Tu-2 (Bat)
Russian aviation engineer Andrei Tupolev would lend his surname to a plethora of Soviet-era aircraft after founding his Tupol...
Variant: Tupolev Tu-2 (Bat)
Russian aviation engineer Andrei Tupolev would lend his surname to a plethora of Soviet-era aircraft after founding his Tupol...
1938
322 mph (518 kph)
Variant: Curtiss P-36G 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 ...
Variant: Curtiss P-36G 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 ...
1937
321 mph (517 kph)
Variant: Brewster F2A-3 Buffalo
The stubby F2A Buffalo series became the United States Navy's first operational aircraft of monoplane design. Despite this ho...
Variant: Brewster F2A-3 Buffalo
The stubby F2A Buffalo series became the United States Navy's first operational aircraft of monoplane design. Despite this ho...
1937
318 mph (511 kph)
Variant: Hawker Hurricane Mk I
The Hawker Hurricane was indeed the true star of Britain's march against the Third Reich. Often overshadowed by the sleeker a...
Variant: Hawker Hurricane Mk I
The Hawker Hurricane was indeed the true star of Britain's march against the Third Reich. Often overshadowed by the sleeker a...
1935
317 mph (510 kph)
Variant: Heinkel He 112B-2
The Heinkel He 112 was the only serious threat (next to the Messerschmitt Bf 109) to becoming Germany's first modern monoplan...
Variant: Heinkel He 112B-2
The Heinkel He 112 was the only serious threat (next to the Messerschmitt Bf 109) to becoming Germany's first modern monoplan...
1943
316 mph (509 kph)
Variant: Fairey Firefly F.Mk I
The Fairey Firefly was a hugely successful, two-seat, carrierborne fighter aircraft serving with the Royal Fleet Air Arm thro...
Variant: Fairey Firefly F.Mk I
The Fairey Firefly was a hugely successful, two-seat, carrierborne fighter aircraft serving with the Royal Fleet Air Arm thro...
1939
316 mph (509 kph)
Variant: Bloch MB.152C.1
The Bloch MB.150 was a family of modern, all-metal monoplane fighter types developed for the French Air Force prior to World ...
Variant: Bloch MB.152C.1
The Bloch MB.150 was a family of modern, all-metal monoplane fighter types developed for the French Air Force prior to World ...
1940
316 mph (508 kph)
Variant: Martin Maryland Mk II
The Martin-produced Maryland series was classified as a light bomber and saw action as a photographic reconnaissance plane th...
Variant: Martin Maryland Mk II
The Martin-produced Maryland series was classified as a light bomber and saw action as a photographic reconnaissance plane th...
1943
314 mph (505 kph)
Variant: Junkers Ju 390 V1 (New York Bomber)
The German Junkers Ju 390 long range heavy bomber aircraft design was intended to be able to strike at locations along the ea...
Variant: Junkers Ju 390 V1 (New York Bomber)
The German Junkers Ju 390 long range heavy bomber aircraft design was intended to be able to strike at locations along the ea...
1941
314 mph (505 kph)
Variant: Hawker Sea Hurricane Mk IIC
The Hawker Sea Hurricane appeared in 1941 in an effort to protect British merchant ships from German naval attacks. Basically...
Variant: Hawker Sea Hurricane Mk IIC
The Hawker Sea Hurricane appeared in 1941 in an effort to protect British merchant ships from German naval attacks. Basically...
1942
314 mph (505 kph)
Variant: Nakajima J1N1-S Gekkou (Irving)
The Nakajima J1N1-S series was a dedicated nightfighting aircraft based on the J1N1 Gekko ("moonlight") reconnaissance aircra...
Variant: Nakajima J1N1-S Gekkou (Irving)
The Nakajima J1N1-S series was a dedicated nightfighting aircraft based on the J1N1 Gekko ("moonlight") reconnaissance aircra...
1937
313 mph (504 kph)
Variant: Boulton Paul Defiant Mk II
The inter-war years saw a vast shift to more modern and potent aircraft platforms. The Boulton Paul Defiant followed as only ...
Variant: Boulton Paul Defiant Mk II
The inter-war years saw a vast shift to more modern and potent aircraft platforms. The Boulton Paul Defiant followed as only ...
1940
312 mph (502 kph)
Variant: Handley Page Halifax B.Mk VI
While the Lancaster Heavy Bomber will always be more identifiable in terms of the British night bombing campaigns of World Wa...
Variant: Handley Page Halifax B.Mk VI
While the Lancaster Heavy Bomber will always be more identifiable in terms of the British night bombing campaigns of World Wa...
1938
312 mph (502 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1943
311 mph (500 kph)
Variant: Brewster XA-32
The United States Army Air Corps appreciated the tactical scope of the German Luftwaffe Junkers Ju 87 "Stuka" dive bombers an...
Variant: Brewster XA-32
The United States Army Air Corps appreciated the tactical scope of the German Luftwaffe Junkers Ju 87 "Stuka" dive bombers an...
1943
310 mph (499 kph)
Variant: Junkers Ju 188E-1 Rache (Avenger)
When the new Junkers Ju 288 - a design meant to replace the Junkers Ju 88 series of bombers - ran into developmental issues w...
Variant: Junkers Ju 188E-1 Rache (Avenger)
When the new Junkers Ju 288 - a design meant to replace the Junkers Ju 88 series of bombers - ran into developmental issues w...
1941
308 mph (495 kph)
Variant: IAR 80A
When first unveiled in 1938, the Romanian-produced I.A.R. 80 (IAR = Industria Aeronautica Romana) piston engine, single-seat ...
Variant: IAR 80A
When first unveiled in 1938, the Romanian-produced I.A.R. 80 (IAR = Industria Aeronautica Romana) piston engine, single-seat ...
1941
306 mph (492 kph)
Variant: Nakajima Ki-49-IIa Donryu (Helen)
The Nakajima Ki-49 Donryu (meaning "storm dragon" and codenamed "Helen" by the Allies) heavy bomber was intended as a replace...
Variant: Nakajima Ki-49-IIa Donryu (Helen)
The Nakajima Ki-49 Donryu (meaning "storm dragon" and codenamed "Helen" by the Allies) heavy bomber was intended as a replace...
1942
305 mph (491 kph)
Variant: CAC Boomerang CA-13 (Mark II)
The Commonwealth Boomerang (also known as the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation - or "CAC" - Boomerang) was of completely Aus...
Variant: CAC Boomerang CA-13 (Mark II)
The Commonwealth Boomerang (also known as the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation - or "CAC" - Boomerang) was of completely Aus...
1935
304 mph (490 kph)
Variant: Polikarpov I-16
The Polikarpov I-16 fighter proved to be quite the little aggressor before and throughout the Second World War. Initially see...
Variant: Polikarpov I-16
The Polikarpov I-16 fighter proved to be quite the little aggressor before and throughout the Second World War. Initially see...
1942
303 mph (488 kph)
Variant: Heinkel He 177A-1 Greif (Griffin)
The Heinkel He 177 Greif (or "Griffin") was a bomber produced in limited numbers for the German Luftwaffe. By any standard, t...
Variant: Heinkel He 177A-1 Greif (Griffin)
The Heinkel He 177 Greif (or "Griffin") was a bomber produced in limited numbers for the German Luftwaffe. By any standard, t...
1939
302 mph (486 kph)
Variant: Mitsubishi Ki-21-IIb (Sally)
The Mitsubishi Ki-21 (codenamed "Sally" by the Allies) was a successful medium bomber in service with the Japanese Air Force ...
Variant: Mitsubishi Ki-21-IIb (Sally)
The Mitsubishi Ki-21 (codenamed "Sally" by the Allies) was a successful medium bomber in service with the Japanese Air Force ...
1941
302 mph (486 kph)
Variant: Martin Baltimore Mk III
The Martin-produced Baltimore was a light-to-medium class bomber whose design was based highly on the Martin "Maryland" A-22 ...
Variant: Martin Baltimore Mk III
The Martin-produced Baltimore was a light-to-medium class bomber whose design was based highly on the Martin "Maryland" A-22 ...
1938
301 mph (485 kph)
Variant: Morane-Saulnier MS 406
The Morane-Saulnier M.S.406 was a single engine, piston-powered, single-seat fighter appearing just before the outbreak of ho...
Variant: Morane-Saulnier MS 406
The Morane-Saulnier M.S.406 was a single engine, piston-powered, single-seat fighter appearing just before the outbreak of ho...
1942
299 mph (481 kph)
Variant: Nakajima B6N2 Tenzan (Jill)
The Nakajima B6N Tenzan (translating to "heavenly mountain") series was a capable torpedo bomber fielded by the Imperial Japa...
Variant: Nakajima B6N2 Tenzan (Jill)
The Nakajima B6N Tenzan (translating to "heavenly mountain") series was a capable torpedo bomber fielded by the Imperial Japa...
1940
298 mph (480 kph)
Variant: Amiot 354
The Amiot 354 bomber and reconnaissance platform was a quite capable aircraft when war broke out over France. The system had ...
Variant: Amiot 354
The Amiot 354 bomber and reconnaissance platform was a quite capable aircraft when war broke out over France. The system had ...
1942
296 mph (477 kph)
Variant: Heinkel He 111 Z (Zwilling)
The He 111 Z (or "Zwilling") was an interesting, albeit bizarre, joining of two He 111 medium bombers (detailed elsewhere on ...
Variant: Heinkel He 111 Z (Zwilling)
The He 111 Z (or "Zwilling") was an interesting, albeit bizarre, joining of two He 111 medium bombers (detailed elsewhere on ...
1938
295 mph (475 kph)
Variant: Fokker G.Ia (Reaper)
The Fokker G.I "Reaper" began as a private venture in 1936 under the leadership of Dr. Erich Schatzki, head engineer at Fokke...
Variant: Fokker G.Ia (Reaper)
The Fokker G.I "Reaper" began as a private venture in 1936 under the leadership of Dr. Erich Schatzki, head engineer at Fokke...
1945
295 mph (474 kph)
Variant: Aichi M6A1 Seiran
This oft-forgotten Aichi design was classified as an attack floatplane that was designed to be carried aboard the Japanese Na...
Variant: Aichi M6A1 Seiran
This oft-forgotten Aichi design was classified as an attack floatplane that was designed to be carried aboard the Japanese Na...
1938
293 mph (472 kph)
Variant: 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 ...
Variant: 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 ...
1939
292 mph (470 kph)
Variant: Dornier Do 215 B-1
The Dornier Do 215 was originally intended for export, beginning life as a redesignated version of the Dornier Do 17 light/me...
Variant: Dornier Do 215 B-1
The Dornier Do 215 was originally intended for export, beginning life as a redesignated version of the Dornier Do 17 light/me...
1937
292 mph (470 kph)
Variant: Nakajima Ki-27a (Nate / Abdul)
The Nakajima Ki-27 "Nate" (known early on as "Abdul") was a successful low-monoplane, all-metal with stressed skin fighter de...
Variant: Nakajima Ki-27a (Nate / Abdul)
The Nakajima Ki-27 "Nate" (known early on as "Abdul") was a successful low-monoplane, all-metal with stressed skin fighter de...
1941
290 mph (467 kph)
Variant: Consolidated B-24J Liberator
The Consolidated B-24 Liberator became a major player for Allied forces during World War 2. Its exploits ranged the world ove...
Variant: Consolidated B-24J Liberator
The Consolidated B-24 Liberator became a major player for Allied forces during World War 2. Its exploits ranged the world ove...
1942
290 mph (467 kph)
Variant: Kawanishi H8K2 (Emily)
The Empire of Japan seemed to be producing its best aircraft designs of the war towards the end of the conflict. The Kawanish...
Variant: Kawanishi H8K2 (Emily)
The Empire of Japan seemed to be producing its best aircraft designs of the war towards the end of the conflict. The Kawanish...
1943
287 mph (462 kph)
Variant: Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer
The Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer was a further development of the United States Navy's PB4Y-1 anti-submarine warfare aircraf...
Variant: Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer
The Consolidated PB4Y-2 Privateer was a further development of the United States Navy's PB4Y-1 anti-submarine warfare aircraf...
1937
287 mph (462 kph)
Variant: Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress
Though the Consolidated B-24 Liberator was built in greater numbers, the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress is often regarded as the...
Variant: Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress
Though the Consolidated B-24 Liberator was built in greater numbers, the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress is often regarded as the...
1942
287 mph (462 kph)
Variant: Avro Lancaster B.Mk I
The Avro Lancaster went on to become the most important British heavy bomber or World War 2. Interestingly, its success was b...
Variant: Avro Lancaster B.Mk I
The Avro Lancaster went on to become the most important British heavy bomber or World War 2. Interestingly, its success was b...
1938
286 mph (460 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1941
282 mph (454 kph)
Variant: Martin B-26 Marauder
The Martin B-26 Marauder overcame a rocky start to become one of the finest medium bombers of World War 2. The aircraft was d...
Variant: Martin B-26 Marauder
The Martin B-26 Marauder overcame a rocky start to become one of the finest medium bombers of World War 2. The aircraft was d...
1941
282 mph (454 kph)
Variant: CAC Woomera CA-11
The CAC A23 "Woomera" was a short-lived dive bomber/torpedo bomber of Australian design during World War 2. The push of Japan...
Variant: CAC Woomera CA-11
The CAC A23 "Woomera" was a short-lived dive bomber/torpedo bomber of Australian design during World War 2. The push of Japan...
1939
280 mph (450 kph)
Variant: Junkers Ju 88A-4
The Junkers Ju 88 represented one of the better and more successful bomber designs attributed to the German Luftwaffe. The sy...
Variant: Junkers Ju 88A-4
The Junkers Ju 88 represented one of the better and more successful bomber designs attributed to the German Luftwaffe. The sy...
1941
279 mph (449 kph)
Variant: Vultee A-35 Mk IV Vengeance
The A-35 Vengeance was a dive bomber produced by the Vultee Aircraft Company and resulted in over a thousand examples being u...
Variant: Vultee A-35 Mk IV Vengeance
The A-35 Vengeance was a dive bomber produced by the Vultee Aircraft Company and resulted in over a thousand examples being u...
1940
277 mph (446 kph)
Variant: Bell XFM-1 Airacuda
In the same way that the XFM-1 Airacuda was a "different" sort of aircraft, the Bell company itself was "different sort" of a...
Variant: Bell XFM-1 Airacuda
In the same way that the XFM-1 Airacuda was a "different" sort of aircraft, the Bell company itself was "different sort" of a...
1944
277 mph (446 kph)
Variant: Blohm and Voss Bv 238 V-1
The mammoth Blohm & Voss Bv 238 was the next evolution in the Blohm & Voss flying boat series for Germany during World War Tw...
Variant: Blohm and Voss Bv 238 V-1
The mammoth Blohm & Voss Bv 238 was the next evolution in the Blohm & Voss flying boat series for Germany during World War Tw...
1937
273 mph (440 kph)
Variant: Mitsubishi A5M4 (Claude)
The Mitsubishi A5M (code-named "Claude" by the Allies) became the world's first shipborne monoplane fighter aircraft when it ...
Variant: Mitsubishi A5M4 (Claude)
The Mitsubishi A5M (code-named "Claude" by the Allies) became the world's first shipborne monoplane fighter aircraft when it ...
1936
273 mph (440 kph)
Variant: Fiat BR.20M Cicogna (Stork)
The Fiat BR.20 Cicogna (translated to "Stork") was a medium bomber in service with the Italian Air Force in the late inter-wa...
Variant: Fiat BR.20M Cicogna (Stork)
The Fiat BR.20 Cicogna (translated to "Stork") was a medium bomber in service with the Italian Air Force in the late inter-wa...
1944
273 mph (439 kph)
Variant: Aichi E16A Zuiun (Paul)
The E16A Zuiun (translated into "Auspicious Cloud" and codenamed "Paul" by the Allies) was a dedicated reconnaissance floatpl...
Variant: Aichi E16A Zuiun (Paul)
The E16A Zuiun (translated into "Auspicious Cloud" and codenamed "Paul" by the Allies) was a dedicated reconnaissance floatpl...
1940
272 mph (438 kph)
Variant: North American B-25C Mitchell
The North American B-25 Mitchell series of medium bombers went on to become one of the classic American aircraft designs to e...
Variant: North American B-25C Mitchell
The North American B-25 Mitchell series of medium bombers went on to become one of the classic American aircraft designs to e...
1941
272 mph (438 kph)
Variant: Mitsubishi G4M2 (Betty)
Like most of Imperial Japan's aircraft in the early stages of World War 2, the Mitsubishi G4M (codenamed "Betty" by the Allie...
Variant: Mitsubishi G4M2 (Betty)
Like most of Imperial Japan's aircraft in the early stages of World War 2, the Mitsubishi G4M (codenamed "Betty" by the Allie...
1938
272 mph (438 kph)
Variant: Blohm and Voss Bv 141B
While the Blohm & Voss (or "Blohm und Voss") aircraft firm will forever be linked to their many successful floatplanes and fl...
Variant: Blohm and Voss Bv 141B
While the Blohm & Voss (or "Blohm und Voss") aircraft firm will forever be linked to their many successful floatplanes and fl...
1936
271 mph (436 kph)
Variant: Heinkel He 111H-16
Though the base He 111 was arguably the most important bomber of the Third Reich during the Second World War, the idea of bom...
Variant: Heinkel He 111H-16
Though the base He 111 was arguably the most important bomber of the Third Reich during the Second World War, the idea of bom...
1942
271 mph (436 kph)
Variant: Grumman TBF-1 Avenger
Destined never to win beauty contests, the Grumman TBF Avenger series of aircraft would go down as one of the most potent tor...
Variant: Grumman TBF-1 Avenger
Destined never to win beauty contests, the Grumman TBF Avenger series of aircraft would go down as one of the most potent tor...
1940
270 mph (435 kph)
Variant: Short Stirling Mk III
The gangly-looking Short Sterling formed the backbone of heavy bomber groups for the RAF from the Battle of Britain on throug...
Variant: Short Stirling Mk III
The gangly-looking Short Sterling formed the backbone of heavy bomber groups for the RAF from the Battle of Britain on throug...
1934
270 mph (435 kph)
Variant: Savoia-Marchetti SM.79-II Sparviero (Sparrowhawk)
The Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 Sparviero series of tri-engined bombers was the best bomber for the Italian Axis power in the Seco...
Variant: Savoia-Marchetti SM.79-II Sparviero (Sparrowhawk)
The Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 Sparviero series of tri-engined bombers was the best bomber for the Italian Axis power in the Seco...
1943
270 mph (434 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1942
269 mph (433 kph)
Variant: Curtiss-Wright C-46A Commando
The United States Air Force utilized the C-46 Commando series as their primary transport workhorse in the Pacific Theater of ...
Variant: Curtiss-Wright C-46A Commando
The United States Air Force utilized the C-46 Commando series as their primary transport workhorse in the Pacific Theater of ...
1940
267 mph (430 kph)
Variant: Aichi D3A2 (Val)
The D3A series of aircraft (dubbed "Val" by the Allies) were thought to be all but extinct when the war in the Pacific began....
Variant: Aichi D3A2 (Val)
The D3A series of aircraft (dubbed "Val" by the Allies) were thought to be all but extinct when the war in the Pacific began....
1936
267 mph (430 kph)
Variant: Breda Ba.65 (A.80)
The Breda Ba.65 was a ground attack aircraft serving primarily with the Italian Air Force (Regia Aeronautica) in the years le...
Variant: Breda Ba.65 (A.80)
The Breda Ba.65 was a ground attack aircraft serving primarily with the Italian Air Force (Regia Aeronautica) in the years le...
1939
267 mph (430 kph)
Variant: 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 ...
Variant: 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 ...
1942
267 mph (429 kph)
Variant: Piaggio P.108B Bombardiere (Bombardier)
The Piaggio P.108 was a multi-faceted airframe developed to fulfill a variety of roles for the Italians during World War 2. S...
Variant: Piaggio P.108B Bombardiere (Bombardier)
The Piaggio P.108 was a multi-faceted airframe developed to fulfill a variety of roles for the Italians during World War 2. S...
1935
266 mph (428 kph)
Variant: Bristol Blenheim IF
The Bristol Blenheim billed as a bomber though when it was officially installed into operational active service, the aircraft...
Variant: Bristol Blenheim IF
The Bristol Blenheim billed as a bomber though when it was officially installed into operational active service, the aircraft...
1940
265 mph (426 kph)
Variant: Bristol Beaufort Mk I
The Bristol Beaufort enjoyed a strong run between the war years of 1940-1943 as the primary British torpedo bomber in service...
Variant: Bristol Beaufort Mk I
The Bristol Beaufort enjoyed a strong run between the war years of 1940-1943 as the primary British torpedo bomber in service...
1942
265 mph (426 kph)
Variant: Douglas C-54A (R5D-1) Skymaster
Derived from the commercial DC-4 airliner, the C-54 Skymaster was a workhorse transport aircraft for both the United States A...
Variant: Douglas C-54A (R5D-1) Skymaster
Derived from the commercial DC-4 airliner, the C-54 Skymaster was a workhorse transport aircraft for both the United States A...
1943
260 mph (418 kph)
Variant: Curtiss SB2C-5 Helldiver
The Curtiss SB2C Helldiver was a rather unassuming dive bomber / reconnaissance aircraft serving throughout World War 2 begin...
Variant: Curtiss SB2C-5 Helldiver
The Curtiss SB2C Helldiver was a rather unassuming dive bomber / reconnaissance aircraft serving throughout World War 2 begin...
1941
256 mph (412 kph)
Variant: Armstrong Whitworth Albemarle Mk II
The Armstrong Whitworth Albemarle became one of those aircraft designs that evolved into a role not initially envisioned. The...
Variant: Armstrong Whitworth Albemarle Mk II
The Armstrong Whitworth Albemarle became one of those aircraft designs that evolved into a role not initially envisioned. The...
1938
255 mph (411 kph)
Variant: Vickers Wellington Mk III
The Vickers-produced Wellington medium-class bomber was a principle bomber of the Royal Air Force at the start of the Second ...
Variant: Vickers Wellington Mk III
The Vickers-produced Wellington medium-class bomber was a principle bomber of the Royal Air Force at the start of the Second ...
1938
255 mph (410 kph)
Variant: Douglas SBD-5 Dauntless
The Douglas DBS Dauntless dive bomber was a key cog in the America Navy war effort throughout the Pacific during World War 2....
Variant: Douglas SBD-5 Dauntless
The Douglas DBS Dauntless dive bomber was a key cog in the America Navy war effort throughout the Pacific during World War 2....
1937
255 mph (410 kph)
Variant: Dornier Do17 (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....
Variant: Dornier Do17 (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....
1937
255 mph (410 kph)
Variant: Junkers Ju 87D-1 (Stuka)
Before the Allies would gain air superiority over the skies of France and Germany, the Junkers Ju 87 "Stuka" dive bomber woul...
Variant: Junkers Ju 87D-1 (Stuka)
Before the Allies would gain air superiority over the skies of France and Germany, the Junkers Ju 87 "Stuka" dive bomber woul...
1936
255 mph (410 kph)
Variant: Tupolev SB-2
The Tupolev SB-2 (the "SB" in the designation standing for "skorostnoi bombardirovschik" meaning "fast bomber") was a light-t...
Variant: Tupolev SB-2
The Tupolev SB-2 (the "SB" in the designation standing for "skorostnoi bombardirovschik" meaning "fast bomber") was a light-t...
1937
255 mph (410 kph)
Variant: Ilyushin IL-4
In many ways the Ilyushin-brand IL-4 was a "forgotten" bomber of the Second World War - at least in the West - though it form...
Variant: Ilyushin IL-4
In many ways the Ilyushin-brand IL-4 was a "forgotten" bomber of the Second World War - at least in the West - though it form...
1937
253 mph (407 kph)
Variant: Gloster Gladiator Mk I
The Gloster Gladiator was a product of the Gloster Aircraft Company and a design of one Henry Phillip Folland. Achieving firs...
Variant: Gloster Gladiator Mk I
The Gloster Gladiator was a product of the Gloster Aircraft Company and a design of one Henry Phillip Folland. Achieving firs...
1942
253 mph (407 kph)
Variant: Henschel Hs 129B-1/R2
The Henschel Hs 129 fighter-bomber was built to a 1937 German specification for a twin-engine close-support aircraft with con...
Variant: Henschel Hs 129B-1/R2
The Henschel Hs 129 fighter-bomber was built to a 1937 German specification for a twin-engine close-support aircraft with con...
1941
251 mph (404 kph)
Variant: Ilyushin IL-2m3 Sturmovik
The Il-2 Sturmovik (or "Shturmovik") was designed as a low-level close-support aircraft capable of defeating enemy armor and ...
Variant: Ilyushin IL-2m3 Sturmovik
The Il-2 Sturmovik (or "Shturmovik") was designed as a low-level close-support aircraft capable of defeating enemy armor and ...
1940
250 mph (402 kph)
Variant: Avro Manchester Mk I/IA
The Avro Manchester was a semi-successful attempt by the Avro firm to fulfill Air Ministry Specification P.13/36. The specifi...
Variant: Avro Manchester Mk I/IA
The Avro Manchester was a semi-successful attempt by the Avro firm to fulfill Air Ministry Specification P.13/36. The specifi...
1936
250 mph (402 kph)
Variant: Dewoitine D.501
The D.500 series, as a whole, was merely a stop-gap design for France - bridging a gap between two eras of aviation resulting...
Variant: Dewoitine D.501
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
250 mph (402 kph)
Variant: Curtiss XP-42
The Curtiss XP-42 was a further development of the Curtiss P-36 Hawk model though it would share some initial outward similar...
Variant: Curtiss XP-42
The Curtiss XP-42 was a further development of the Curtiss P-36 Hawk model though it would share some initial outward similar...
1941
250 mph (402 kph)
Variant: Douglas A-24A Banshee
The Douglas A-24 "Banshee" dive bomber fit the requirement of the United States Army for a capable dive bomber-type aircraft....
Variant: Douglas A-24A Banshee
The Douglas A-24 "Banshee" dive bomber fit the requirement of the United States Army for a capable dive bomber-type aircraft....
1943
249 mph (400 kph)
Variant: Junkers Ju 187
Throughout the latter half of the 1930s and into the early 1940s, the Junkers Ju 87 "Stuka" dive bomber asserted itself as on...
Variant: Junkers Ju 187
Throughout the latter half of the 1930s and into the early 1940s, the Junkers Ju 87 "Stuka" dive bomber asserted itself as on...
1934
245 mph (394 kph)
Variant: Avia B.534-IV
The Czechoslovakian Avia B.534 series of biplane was a highly regarded though often forgotten product of the European nation....
Variant: Avia B.534-IV
The Czechoslovakian Avia B.534 series of biplane was a highly regarded though often forgotten product of the European nation....
1941
242 mph (390 kph)
Variant: Blohm and Voss Bv 222C-0 Wiking (Viking)
The Blohm & Voss Bv 222 Wiking (translating to "Viking") was a large German flying boat design of World War 2. The behemoth s...
Variant: Blohm and Voss Bv 222C-0 Wiking (Viking)
The Blohm & Voss Bv 222 Wiking (translating to "Viking") was a large German flying boat design of World War 2. The behemoth s...
1938
239 mph (385 kph)
Variant: Kawanishi H6K5 (Mavis)
Though looking very much the part of a German-produced Dornier series flying boat, the Kawanishi brand H6K series (codenamed ...
Variant: Kawanishi H6K5 (Mavis)
Though looking very much the part of a German-produced Dornier series flying boat, the Kawanishi brand H6K series (codenamed ...
1938
237 mph (381 kph)
Variant: Curtiss SBC-4 Helldiver
In 1932, the United States Navy contracted the Curtiss-Wright Corporation to produce a modern, two-seat fighter design for us...
Variant: Curtiss SBC-4 Helldiver
In 1932, the United States Navy contracted the Curtiss-Wright Corporation to produce a modern, two-seat fighter design for us...
1939
236 mph (380 kph)
Variant: Loire-Nieuport LN.401
The Loire-Nieuport LN.40/LN.401 series of aircraft was a carrier-based dive bomber developed for the French Navy prior to Wor...
Variant: Loire-Nieuport LN.401
The Loire-Nieuport LN.40/LN.401 series of aircraft was a carrier-based dive bomber developed for the French Navy prior to Wor...
1941
235 mph (378 kph)
Variant: Sukhoi Su-2
The Sukhoi Su-2 was the first aircraft design of Pavel Sukhoi and became a two-seat light bomber fielded by the Soviet Air Fo...
Variant: Sukhoi Su-2
The Sukhoi Su-2 was the first aircraft design of Pavel Sukhoi and became a two-seat light bomber fielded by the Soviet Air Fo...
1941
235 mph (378 kph)
Variant: Nakajima B5N2 (Kate)
By 1941, the B5N series of torpedo bombers were considered the best of their type anywhere in the world. The system was initi...
Variant: Nakajima B5N2 (Kate)
By 1941, the B5N series of torpedo bombers were considered the best of their type anywhere in the world. The system was initi...
1941
234 mph (377 kph)
Variant: Aichi E13A1a (Jake)
Based on number alone, the Aichi production E13A series of floatplanes (dubbed "Jake" by the Allies) was the most important s...
Variant: Aichi E13A1a (Jake)
Based on number alone, the Aichi production E13A series of floatplanes (dubbed "Jake" by the Allies) was the most important s...
1938
233 mph (375 kph)
Variant: Fiat CR.32bis
Arguably the best biplane fighter of Italian design before the start of the Second World War. The plane was also built for ex...
Variant: Fiat CR.32bis
Arguably the best biplane fighter of Italian design before the start of the Second World War. The plane was also built for ex...
1940
233 mph (375 kph)
Variant: Caproni-Campini N1 (CC.2)
With the introduction of the N1 (may also be known as the CC.2), Italy became only the second nation in the world to achieve ...
Variant: Caproni-Campini N1 (CC.2)
With the introduction of the N1 (may also be known as the CC.2), Italy became only the second nation in the world to achieve ...
1936
232 mph (374 kph)
Variant: Mitsubishi G3M2 Model 22 Rikko (Nell)
The Mitsubishi G3M "Rikko" (codenamed "Nell" by the Allies) was a frontline, twin-engine medium bomber utilized primarily by ...
Variant: Mitsubishi G3M2 Model 22 Rikko (Nell)
The Mitsubishi G3M "Rikko" (codenamed "Nell" by the Allies) was a frontline, twin-engine medium bomber utilized primarily by ...
1934
230 mph (370 kph)
Variant: Polikarpov I-15bis (Chaika)
The Polikarpov I-15 was a biplane fighter aircraft designed and produced by the Soviet Union during the inter-war years. She ...
Variant: Polikarpov I-15bis (Chaika)
The Polikarpov I-15 was a biplane fighter aircraft designed and produced by the Soviet Union during the inter-war years. She ...
1935
230 mph (370 kph)
Variant: Gloster Gauntlet Mk II
Gloster Gauntlet origins lay in a Gloster design appearing in the late 1920's for the Royal Air Force and served throughout t...
Variant: Gloster Gauntlet Mk II
Gloster Gauntlet origins lay in a Gloster design appearing in the late 1920's for the Royal Air Force and served throughout t...
1940
230 mph (370 kph)
Variant: Douglas C-47 Skytrain / Dakota Mk I
The C-47 Skytrain was a product of the Douglas Aircraft Company and is regarded as the best transport of World War 2. Interes...
Variant: Douglas C-47 Skytrain / Dakota Mk I
The C-47 Skytrain was a product of the Douglas Aircraft Company and is regarded as the best transport of World War 2. Interes...
1937
230 mph (370 kph)
Variant: Armstrong Whitworth Whitley Mk V
Continuing in the tradition of ugly yet robust and reliable heavy bombers, the British Armstrong Whitworth Whitley was the he...
Variant: Armstrong Whitworth Whitley Mk V
Continuing in the tradition of ugly yet robust and reliable heavy bombers, the British Armstrong Whitworth Whitley was the he...
1932
227 mph (365 kph)
Variant: Boeing P-26A Peashooter
The P-26 became the first all-metal fighter design for the United States. Appearing similar to the later "Gee Bee" series of ...
Variant: Boeing P-26A Peashooter
The P-26 became the first all-metal fighter design for the United States. Appearing similar to the later "Gee Bee" series of ...
1936
226 mph (364 kph)
Variant: CANT Z.506 Airone (Heron)
Cantieri Riuniti dell'Adriatico ("CANT") was responsible for the excellent Italian floatplane design that was the CANT Z.506 ...
Variant: CANT Z.506 Airone (Heron)
Cantieri Riuniti dell'Adriatico ("CANT") was responsible for the excellent Italian floatplane design that was the CANT Z.506 ...
1933
224 mph (360 kph)
Variant: Heinkel He 70F-2 (Blitz)
The Heinkel 70 (Blitz) was originally born out of a need for a speedy aeroplane charged with "fast" mail delivery for the Deu...
Variant: Heinkel He 70F-2 (Blitz)
The Heinkel 70 (Blitz) was originally born out of a need for a speedy aeroplane charged with "fast" mail delivery for the Deu...
1938
224 mph (360 kph)
Variant: Focke-Wulf Fw 200C-3 (Condor)
The German Fw 200 Condor was initially a trans-Atlantic passenger and cargo (mail) aircraft developed by Focke-Wulf and legen...
Variant: Focke-Wulf Fw 200C-3 (Condor)
The German Fw 200 Condor was initially a trans-Atlantic passenger and cargo (mail) aircraft developed by Focke-Wulf and legen...
1941
224 mph (360 kph)
Variant: Beechcraft UC-45 (Expeditor)
The Beechcraft C-45 was based on the Beech Aircraft Corporation's civilian-minded Model 18 "Twin Beech" series. First flight ...
Variant: Beechcraft UC-45 (Expeditor)
The Beechcraft C-45 was based on the Beech Aircraft Corporation's civilian-minded Model 18 "Twin Beech" series. First flight ...
1931
223 mph (359 kph)
Variant: Hawker Fury II
The Hawker Fury was the mainstay of Britain air defense throughout the 1930's until being replaced by the Gloster Gladiators....
Variant: Hawker Fury II
The Hawker Fury was the mainstay of Britain air defense throughout the 1930's until being replaced by the Gloster Gladiators....
1940
223 mph (359 kph)
Variant: Consolidated PB2Y-3 Coronado
By the middle of the 1930's America was no longer blind to the real possibility that the war would sooner or later be waged a...
Variant: Consolidated PB2Y-3 Coronado
By the middle of the 1930's America was no longer blind to the real possibility that the war would sooner or later be waged a...
1938
217 mph (350 kph)
Variant: Dornier Do 22
The Dornier Do 22 was a German-designed and produced three-man floatplane. It was produced in Germany and Switzerland for the...
Variant: Dornier Do 22
The Dornier Do 22 was a German-designed and produced three-man floatplane. It was produced in Germany and Switzerland for the...
1940
217 mph (350 kph)
Variant: Focke-Wulf Fw 189 Uhu (Owl)
The Focke-Wulf brand Fw 189 Uhu (translated to "Owl") was of the most peculiar aircraft design for the German Luftwaffe in th...
Variant: Focke-Wulf Fw 189 Uhu (Owl)
The Focke-Wulf brand Fw 189 Uhu (translated to "Owl") was of the most peculiar aircraft design for the German Luftwaffe in th...
1937
217 mph (350 kph)
Variant: Breda Ba.64
The Breda Ba.64 was a short-lived ground attack platform fielded primarily by the Regia Aeronautica of Italy prior to and dur...
Variant: Breda Ba.64
The Breda Ba.64 was a short-lived ground attack platform fielded primarily by the Regia Aeronautica of Italy prior to and dur...
1939
217 mph (350 kph)
Variant: CAC Wirraway
The CAC Wirraway ("Challenge" in the Woiwurrung native tongue) became one of Australia's primary trainer aircraft from 1939 o...
Variant: CAC Wirraway
The CAC Wirraway ("Challenge" in the Woiwurrung native tongue) became one of Australia's primary trainer aircraft from 1939 o...
1937
217 mph (349 kph)
Variant: Short Sunderland Mk V
The Short Sunderland was the premiere flying boat of British military aviators during World War 2. Oft regarded as one of the...
Variant: Short Sunderland Mk V
The Short Sunderland was the premiere flying boat of British military aviators during World War 2. Oft regarded as one of the...
1936
216 mph (347 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1936
215 mph (346 kph)
Variant: Douglas B-18A Bolo
In 1934, the American Douglas aircraft concern developed the DB-1 (also known as the "Douglas Bomber 1") to fulfill a United ...
Variant: Douglas B-18A Bolo
In 1934, the American Douglas aircraft concern developed the DB-1 (also known as the "Douglas Bomber 1") to fulfill a United ...
1933
211 mph (340 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1939
211 mph (340 kph)
Variant: Boeing 314A Clipper (C-98)
The Boeing Model 314 "Clipper" was a flying boat developed by Boeing Aircraft Company to fulfill a Pan American requirement f...
Variant: Boeing 314A Clipper (C-98)
The Boeing Model 314 "Clipper" was a flying boat developed by Boeing Aircraft Company to fulfill a Pan American requirement f...
1941
211 mph (340 kph)
Variant: Martin PBM-3D Mariner
The Martin PBM-3 / PBM-5 Mariner was a World War 2-era flying boat used in the maritime reconnaissance role. Martin designed ...
Variant: Martin PBM-3D Mariner
The Martin PBM-3 / PBM-5 Mariner was a World War 2-era flying boat used in the maritime reconnaissance role. Martin designed ...
1937
211 mph (340 kph)
Variant: Dornier Do 24T-1
The Dornier Do 24 was a capable flying both serving in limited numbers both Allied and Axis powers in World War 2. The system...
Variant: Dornier Do 24T-1
The Dornier Do 24 was a capable flying both serving in limited numbers both Allied and Axis powers in World War 2. The system...
1936
211 mph (340 kph)
Variant: Henschel Hs 123a-1
The Henschel-produced Hs 123 aircraft became the last operational biplane for the German Luftwaffe during World War two. Born...
Variant: Henschel Hs 123a-1
The Henschel-produced Hs 123 aircraft became the last operational biplane for the German Luftwaffe during World War two. Born...
1941
211 mph (340 kph)
Variant: Arado Ar 232 Tausendfussler (Millipede)
The Arado aircraft firm produced one of the more identifiable transport aircraft of the Luftwaffe during the Second World War...
Variant: Arado Ar 232 Tausendfussler (Millipede)
The Arado aircraft firm produced one of the more identifiable transport aircraft of the Luftwaffe during the Second World War...
1934
210 mph (338 kph)
Variant: Douglas DC-2
Before the DC-3 became a marketing success for the Douglas Aircraft Company - produced in some 16,000 total examples - the co...
Variant: Douglas DC-2
Before the DC-3 became a marketing success for the Douglas Aircraft Company - produced in some 16,000 total examples - the co...
1936
209 mph (337 kph)
Variant: North American AT-6A Texan
The T-6 Texan was and is a world famous single-engine aircraft primarily known for its use as a trainer. A product of the Nor...
Variant: North American AT-6A Texan
The T-6 Texan was and is a world famous single-engine aircraft primarily known for its use as a trainer. A product of the Nor...
1935
208 mph (335 kph)
Variant: Savoia-Marchetti SM.81 Pipistrello (Bat)
The Savoia-Marchetti SM.81 Pipistrello ("Bat") served primarily with the Regia Aeronautica throughout the 1930s and 1940s. Th...
Variant: Savoia-Marchetti SM.81 Pipistrello (Bat)
The Savoia-Marchetti SM.81 Pipistrello ("Bat") served primarily with the Regia Aeronautica throughout the 1930s and 1940s. Th...
1937
206 mph (331 kph)
Variant: Douglas TBD-1 Devastator
The Douglas TBD Devastator was classified as a torpedo bomber and served in the early half of World War 2 with the United Sta...
Variant: Douglas TBD-1 Devastator
The Douglas TBD Devastator was classified as a torpedo bomber and served in the early half of World War 2 with the United Sta...
1935
205 mph (330 kph)
Variant: Heinkel He 51A
The He 51 was a product of the German Heinkel firm and a design of the Gunter twins, Walter and Siegfried. The Gunters became...
Variant: Heinkel He 51A
The He 51 was a product of the German Heinkel firm and a design of the Gunter twins, Walter and Siegfried. The Gunters became...
1936
205 mph (330 kph)
Variant: Armstrong Whitworth AW.27 Ensign Mk I
The impressive Armstrong Whitworth Ensign AW.27 series was made originally designed to a 1934 British government requirement ...
Variant: Armstrong Whitworth AW.27 Ensign Mk I
The impressive Armstrong Whitworth Ensign AW.27 series was made originally designed to a 1934 British government requirement ...
1939
203 mph (327 kph)
Variant: Heinkel He 115B-1
By all accounts, the He 115 series of floatplane aircraft was regarded as the finest such aircraft in all of World War 2. She...
Variant: Heinkel He 115B-1
By all accounts, the He 115 series of floatplane aircraft was regarded as the finest such aircraft in all of World War 2. She...
1937
201 mph (324 kph)
Variant: Grumman JRF-5 Goose
While most every aircraft venture usually began with a military requirement or private venture undertaken by a manufacturer f...
Variant: Grumman JRF-5 Goose
While most every aircraft venture usually began with a military requirement or private venture undertaken by a manufacturer f...
1945
200 mph (322 kph)
Variant: Kyushu Q1W1 Tokai (Eastern Sea) / (Lorna)
The Kyushu Q1W "Tokai" (translating to "Eastern Sea" and codenamed "Lorna" by the Allies) was an anti-submarine bomber utiliz...
Variant: Kyushu Q1W1 Tokai (Eastern Sea) / (Lorna)
The Kyushu Q1W "Tokai" (translating to "Eastern Sea" and codenamed "Lorna" by the Allies) was an anti-submarine bomber utiliz...
1937
200 mph (322 kph)
Variant: Aero A.304
The Aero A.304 originally began life as the Aero A.204 passenger airliner produced by Aero Vodochody of Czechoslovakia. The p...
Variant: Aero A.304
The Aero A.304 originally began life as the Aero A.204 passenger airliner produced by Aero Vodochody of Czechoslovakia. The p...
1945
199 mph (320 kph)
Variant: Hughes H-4 Hercules
The famed Hercules aircraft produced and flown only one time by Howard Hughes himself. It was commonly known as the 'Spruce G...
Variant: Hughes H-4 Hercules
The famed Hercules aircraft produced and flown only one time by Howard Hughes himself. It was commonly known as the 'Spruce G...
1929
193 mph (311 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1939
193 mph (310 kph)
Variant: Arado Ar 196A-3
The Arado Ar 196 was the principle floatplane of the German Luftwaffe throughout World War 2. The aircraft was showcased in q...
Variant: Arado Ar 196A-3
The Arado Ar 196 was the principle floatplane of the German Luftwaffe throughout World War 2. The aircraft was showcased in q...
1935
193 mph (310 kph)
Variant: Amiot 143
The Amiot 143 of the French Air Force represented an evolution in the Amiot piston-engine bomber series that replaced the Ami...
Variant: Amiot 143
The Amiot 143 of the French Air Force represented an evolution in the Amiot piston-engine bomber series that replaced the Ami...
1937
192 mph (309 kph)
Variant: Airspeed Oxford Mk I
The Airspeed Oxford was a critical component of the British and Commonwealth forces aerial training program during World War ...
Variant: Airspeed Oxford Mk I
The Airspeed Oxford was a critical component of the British and Commonwealth forces aerial training program during World War ...
1934
190 mph (305 kph)
Variant: Arado Ar 68G
The Arado-production of the Ar 68 signaled a stepping stone for fighter design in the German Luftwaffe. With the air force br...
Variant: Arado Ar 68G
The Arado-production of the Ar 68 signaled a stepping stone for fighter design in the German Luftwaffe. With the air force br...
1934
190 mph (305 kph)
Variant: Messerschmitt Bf 108B Taifun
The high performance, record-setting Messerschmitt Bf 108 "Taifun" ("Typhoon") was born as a racing aircraft under the protot...
Variant: Messerschmitt Bf 108B Taifun
The high performance, record-setting Messerschmitt Bf 108 "Taifun" ("Typhoon") was born as a racing aircraft under the protot...
1936
189 mph (304 kph)
Variant: PZL.23A Karas
The PZL.23 "Karas" (meaning "the crucian carp") series of aircraft was a conventional - yet outdated - monoplane light bomber...
Variant: PZL.23A Karas
The PZL.23 "Karas" (meaning "the crucian carp") series of aircraft was a conventional - yet outdated - monoplane light bomber...
1936
188 mph (303 kph)
Variant: Avro Anson C.Mk 1
The Avro Anson was a militarized version of the commercial passenger transport Avro 652. The Anson itself was produced to ful...
Variant: Avro Anson C.Mk 1
The Avro Anson was a militarized version of the commercial passenger transport Avro 652. The Anson itself was produced to ful...
1939
183 mph (295 kph)
Variant: Vultee BT-13A Valiant
The BT-13 Valiant was a stellar trainer aircraft used for basic flight training and for blind instrument training throughout ...
Variant: Vultee BT-13A Valiant
The BT-13 Valiant was a stellar trainer aircraft used for basic flight training and for blind instrument training throughout ...
1936
179 mph (288 kph)
Variant: Consolidated PBY-5A Catalina
Maritime aircraft play an understated role, especially in that of war time. Fly boats came to pass, first in peace-time devel...
Variant: Consolidated PBY-5A Catalina
Maritime aircraft play an understated role, especially in that of war time. Fly boats came to pass, first in peace-time devel...
1940
177 mph (285 kph)
Variant: Blohm and Voss Bv 138C-1
The Blohm and Voss (also written as "Blohm und Voss" or "Blohm & Voss") Bv 138 was a German flying boat that saw quantitative...
Variant: Blohm and Voss Bv 138C-1
The Blohm and Voss (also written as "Blohm und Voss" or "Blohm & Voss") Bv 138 was a German flying boat that saw quantitative...
1933
177 mph (285 kph)
Variant: 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...
Variant: 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...
1937
175 mph (282 kph)
Variant: Arado Ar 195
The Arado Ar 195 was prototype design intended for operations from Germany's first aircraft carrier known as the Graf Zeppeli...
Variant: Arado Ar 195
The Arado Ar 195 was prototype design intended for operations from Germany's first aircraft carrier known as the Graf Zeppeli...
1942
172 mph (277 kph)
Variant: Curtiss SO3C-2 Seamew
The Curtiss SO3C "Seamew" (Curtiss Model 82) was an oft-forgotten navy reconnaissance/scout/patrol floatplane produced in qua...
Variant: Curtiss SO3C-2 Seamew
The Curtiss SO3C "Seamew" (Curtiss Model 82) was an oft-forgotten navy reconnaissance/scout/patrol floatplane produced in qua...
1936
171 mph (275 kph)
Variant: CANT Z.501 Gabbiano (Gull)
The CANT Z.501 Gabbiano (meaning "Gull") was a flying boat aircraft developed in Italy and shared a resemblance to the succes...
Variant: CANT Z.501 Gabbiano (Gull)
The CANT Z.501 Gabbiano (meaning "Gull") was a flying boat aircraft developed in Italy and shared a resemblance to the succes...
1943
168 mph (270 kph)
Variant: Messerschmitt Me 323D Gigant (Giant)
No sooner had the Messerschmitt Me 321 unpowered glider entered service that a powered version was being requested by the Ger...
Variant: Messerschmitt Me 323D Gigant (Giant)
No sooner had the Messerschmitt Me 321 unpowered glider entered service that a powered version was being requested by the Ger...
1938
165 mph (266 kph)
Variant: Dornier Do 18G-1
Though a serviceable flying boat with a successful pedigree, the Dornier Do 18 was highly outclassed and outdated at the star...
Variant: Dornier Do 18G-1
Though a serviceable flying boat with a successful pedigree, the Dornier Do 18 was highly outclassed and outdated at the star...
1940
164 mph (264 kph)
Variant: Vought OS2U-3 Kingfisher
The OS2U Kingfisher was a product of the Vought aircraft firm, appearing initially as the VS.310 design to which the United S...
Variant: Vought OS2U-3 Kingfisher
The OS2U Kingfisher was a product of the Vought aircraft firm, appearing initially as the VS.310 design to which the United S...
1924
156 mph (251 kph)
Variant: Armstrong Whitworth Siskin IIIA
The Armstrong Whitworth Siskin (a siskin being a smallish yellow-tinged finch) was the primary air mount of many-a-Royal Air ...
Variant: Armstrong Whitworth Siskin IIIA
The Armstrong Whitworth Siskin (a siskin being a smallish yellow-tinged finch) was the primary air mount of many-a-Royal Air ...
1935
154 mph (248 kph)
Variant: Beriev MBR-2bis
The Beriev Be-2 was one of the few flying boats of note fighting for the Soviet Union throughout World War 2 as very little i...
Variant: Beriev MBR-2bis
The Beriev Be-2 was one of the few flying boats of note fighting for the Soviet Union throughout World War 2 as very little i...
1937
150 mph (241 kph)
Variant: Supermarine Stranraer
The Supermarine Stranraer was the final evolution of the Supermarine Southampton which debuted in March of 1925. The original...
Variant: Supermarine Stranraer
The Supermarine Stranraer was the final evolution of the Supermarine Southampton which debuted in March of 1925. The original...
1942
143 mph (230 kph)
Variant: Kyushu K11W Shiragiku (White Chrysanthemum)
Oft-forgotten, but no less important to the Japanese war effort of World War 2, was the Kyushu K11W Shiragiku ("White Chrysan...
Variant: Kyushu K11W Shiragiku (White Chrysanthemum)
Oft-forgotten, but no less important to the Japanese war effort of World War 2, was the Kyushu K11W Shiragiku ("White Chrysan...
1936
142 mph (228 kph)
Variant: Saro London Mk II (A.27)
The Saro London borrowed much from the British flying boat designs peppering the 1920s and, in many ways, her retirement was ...
Variant: Saro London Mk II (A.27)
The Saro London borrowed much from the British flying boat designs peppering the 1920s and, in many ways, her retirement was ...
1936
138 mph (222 kph)
Variant: Fairey Swordfish Mk II
The Fairey Swordfish was one of the unsung heroes of the Second World War. With Britain seemingly fighting the world war all ...
Variant: Fairey Swordfish Mk II
The Fairey Swordfish was one of the unsung heroes of the Second World War. With Britain seemingly fighting the world war all ...
1934
137 mph (220 kph)
Variant: Blackburn Baffin T.8
The Blackburn Baffin was nothing more than a Pegasus-engined evolution of the Blackburn Ripon bomber of the mid-1920s. Both t...
Variant: Blackburn Baffin T.8
The Blackburn Baffin was nothing more than a Pegasus-engined evolution of the Blackburn Ripon bomber of the mid-1920s. Both t...
1921
133 mph (214 kph)
Variant: Aero A.11
The Aero A.11 was a highly successful, multi-faceted performer for the Czech Army Air Force in the interwar years between Wor...
Variant: Aero A.11
The Aero A.11 was a highly successful, multi-faceted performer for the Czech Army Air Force in the interwar years between Wor...
1929
126 mph (203 kph)
Variant: Blackburn Ripon Mk .II
The Blackburn concern was founded in 1914 by aviation engineer Robert Blackburn as the "Blackburn Aeroplane & Motor Company" ...
Variant: Blackburn Ripon Mk .II
The Blackburn concern was founded in 1914 by aviation engineer Robert Blackburn as the "Blackburn Aeroplane & Motor Company" ...
1941
124 mph (199 kph)
Variant: Boeing-Stearman PT-17A Kaydet
When The Boeing Company acquired the Stearman company in 1939, it also acquired the design and production rights to the promi...
Variant: Boeing-Stearman PT-17A Kaydet
When The Boeing Company acquired the Stearman company in 1939, it also acquired the design and production rights to the promi...
1933
120 mph (193 kph)
Variant: Avro 621 Tutor
The Avro 621 Tutor was a primary component of RAF and RN pilot training in the interwar years. Developed from the World War 1...
Variant: Avro 621 Tutor
The Avro 621 Tutor was a primary component of RAF and RN pilot training in the interwar years. Developed from the World War 1...
1941
115 mph (185 kph)
Variant: CAC Wackett
The CAC Wackett was an indigenously designed and developed dedicated basic trainer for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) ...
Variant: CAC Wackett
The CAC Wackett was an indigenously designed and developed dedicated basic trainer for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) ...
1937
106 mph (170 kph)
Variant: Fieseler Fi 156C-2 Storch (Stork)
The seemingly fragile Fieseler Fi 156 Storch(or "Stork") does not seem to have a home in a global conflict as World War 2 was...
Variant: Fieseler Fi 156C-2 Storch (Stork)
The seemingly fragile Fieseler Fi 156 Storch(or "Stork") does not seem to have a home in a global conflict as World War 2 was...
1931
104 mph (167 kph)
Variant: de Havilland DH.82A Tiger Moth
The Tiger Moth series produced by the UK firm of de Havilland went on to become one of the more beloved trainers of all time,...
Variant: de Havilland DH.82A Tiger Moth
The Tiger Moth series produced by the UK firm of de Havilland went on to become one of the more beloved trainers of all time,...
1939
99 mph (160 kph)
Variant: Flettner Fl 265
The Flettner Fl 265 served as an experimental helicopter system for the German Kriegsmarine during World War 2. In many ways,...
Variant: Flettner Fl 265
The Flettner Fl 265 served as an experimental helicopter system for the German Kriegsmarine during World War 2. In many ways,...
1941
99 mph (160 kph)
Variant: Messerschmitt Me 321B Gigant (Giant)
The Messerschmitt Me 321 "Gigant" ("Giant") was developed as a large cargo hauler to help supplement German airborne troop ac...
Variant: Messerschmitt Me 321B Gigant (Giant)
The Messerschmitt Me 321 "Gigant" ("Giant") was developed as a large cargo hauler to help supplement German airborne troop ac...
1941
85 mph (137 kph)
Variant: Piper L-4 Grasshopper
The Piper L-4 Grasshopper evolved from the successful Piper Cub series that took to the air as early as 1930. By 1941, the US...
Variant: Piper L-4 Grasshopper
The Piper L-4 Grasshopper evolved from the successful Piper Cub series that took to the air as early as 1930. By 1941, the US...
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