One factor which proved decisive in World War II was the impact of air power. The fighting powers recognised the capability to seize control of the air was also decisive for the fortunes of land and sea war, resulting in an all out effort to build as many planes as possible to equip fighting services worldwide. Factories sprung up, machines worked around the clock and thousands of fighters, attack planes and bombers were produced to contribute to warfare across globe.

The war converted the aircraft factory into a sign of industrial power. Though aircraft are remembered because they were handsome, swift, or flown by pilots with legendary names, others are remembered for the fact that they could be mass-produced and used in large quantities to keep pace with losses, reinforce old squadrons, or keep pressure on the enemy.

Despite Germany having some of the best aircraft technology on offer at the start of the conflict, it was not long before America, Britain and eventually Russia, all utilized their immense industrial power to dwarf production numbers from the Axis powers. Whether from the nimble fighters that protected cities to the heavy-hitting bombers that rained destruction from the skies, these machines are evidence of the enormous effort that war put on our manufacturing industries. These are 10 of the top most produced aircraft of WWII.

1. Hawker Hurricane (14,483 Produced)

The Hawker Hurricane is one of the more significant aircraft that served the RAF in the Second World War. Between 1937 and 1944 some 14,483 Hurricanes were produced. The success achieved by British fighters at the time could quite easily been that of Hawker, although due to popular and public opinion it tends to get over looked.

Key Strengths of Hurricane:

• Massive wartime production numbers
• Crucial Battle of Britain role
• Rugged and reliable design
• Easy field maintenance support
• Significant RAF combat contribution

Hurricane role in Battle of Britain saw Britain’s airspace defended by Hurricane fighter planes against the German Luftwaffe. Tough and reliable to fly and simple to maintain the Hurricane was used as effectively in combat. Hurricane squadrons destroyed much of the enemy fighter power during the campaign, making them not a secondary player in a conflict where it was a proven warfighter.

Perhaps Hurricane’s best asset was its engineering. They were simpler to maintain than many other types and a much lower groundcrew level was able to sustain a number of Hurricanes in a fight-ready condition. It didn’t get the legendary status that the Spitfire enjoyed, but it was critical for Britain in the early war years, earning itself its place in aviation history.

2. Junkers Ju-88 (14,676 Produced)

The Junkers Ju-88 was among Germany’s most multi-talented attack aircraft and remained central to Luftwaffe’s attacks during WWII. More than 14,676 aircraft were built, making them active for bombing and reconnaissance, night fighters and a variety of other types of service. That made it one of the most productive aircraft in the German army, the one that served in a variety of ways to serve for a time.

Major Capabilities of Ju-88:

• Versatile multi-role aircraft
• Extensive Luftwaffe service
• Effective night operations
• Adaptable combat variants
• Large production achievement

The Ju-88 first came to fame during the Battle of Britain. While being utilized as a bomber for bombing the cities of England it would prove itself more effective operating at night as the allied defenses against attack become harder to defend against the higher capability Allied fighter of this period. The aircraft was very effective but with only weak defensive measures on some of its models it was sometimes out matched by Allied fighters that carried greater armor.

The aircraft’s most important virtue was its suitability for different battlefield demands. Germany designed a number of variants of the Ju-88 which were either bombing models or variants fitted out for fighting, scouting and sea missions, which kept the type in service for all war years and made it one of the most important aircraft that the Luftwaffe has ever had built.

3. North American P-51 Mustang (Over 15,000 Produced)

World War II’s iconic Mustang The North American P-51 Mustang was undoubtedly one of the most successful and famous fighter aircraft of World War II. More than 15,000 Mustangs were manufactured. It proved instrumental in achieving Allied air supremacy in the latter stages of the European War and would continue to be the symbol of American air power long after the fighting ceased. It was capable of speeds comparable to those of enemy aircraft, and with excellent endurance it could penetrate deep into hostile territory and engage any opponent.

Mustang’s Major Advantages:

• Exceptional long-range capability
• Superior fighter performance
• Allied bomber protection
• Famous wartime service
• Air superiority contribution

However, it was the Mustang’s increased range which made the most difference. When it was deployed, Allied bombing crews were suffering massive casualties on raids into Germany; by the time bombers had gone so far, they ran out of escort. The Mustang made sure they were safe all the way through the country by seeing them safely there and dealing with German interceptors, making those bombing raids much more successful and, of course, resulting in fewer crew members shot down.

In addition to its engineering, the P-51 is remembered as the mount of some of the war’s most famous pilots and units. These included the Tuskegee Airmen, a legendary group that made a lasting impact on military aviation history. As an air superiority fighter capable of both domination of the air and escorting Allied bombers, the Mustang was instrumental in the victory of the Allies over Europe.

4. Republic P-47 Thunderbolt (15,683 Produced)

It was among the largest and heaviest single-engine fighters ever used during the Second World War with over 15,683 machines delivered more than any other fighter aircraft from the United States during that war. Thanks to its incredibly robust structure, it was one of the safest planes of the conflict, it was said that the P-47 could withstand multiple machine gun and even cannon hits and still fly back to base.

Thunderbolt’s Key Features:

• Powerful single-engine fighter
• Exceptional durability in combat
• Heavy damage resistance capability
• Strong Allied ground support
• Effective long-range operations

Due to the great size and large engine, this aircraft would deliver superb speeds especially when going into a high-speed dive. Even though much larger than many of the fighter planes during this time, the Thunderbolt would more than hold its own against most enemy German aircraft. Given that it had solid armor protection and a sturdy construction, the aircraft was an excellent choice for a pilot who needed a plane that could survive the worst and these facts did contribute to it establishing itself as a good wartime aircraft.

During Allied operations over Europe, the P-47 found a particular purpose; it helped cover ground assaults during major campaigns, including the D-Day invasion, and provided direct air support. Its longer range also proved essential in the vast Pacific region, which presented added logistical hurdles for military planes. The combination of speed, strength, and adaptability of the Thunderbolt made it an exceptionally successful World War II fighter.

5. Yakovlev Yak-9 (16,769 Produced)

The Soviet Yakovlev Yak-9 is evidence of the Soviet Union’s colossal war industrial complex that turned out 16,769 aircraft. Making it the third highest produced fighter aircraft of the war, the Soviet Yak-9 was a battle machine that emphasized a down-to-earth practical approach to air warfare and a vital asset to the Soviets as they grappled against the Germans along the Eastern Front.

Yak-9’s Combat Strengths:

• Large-scale Soviet production
• Effective Eastern Front fighter
• Simple practical design
• Strong battlefield performance
• Adaptable mission capabilities

The Yak-9 was popular with Soviet pilots due to its simplicity of manufacture, robust nature and simplicity of maintenance. The Yak-9 saw service in massive campaigns including the battles of Stalingrad and Kursk, where the Soviet Air Force desperately fought for supremacy over the airspace, this plane being nimble and agile at medium and lower altitudes, where much of the air-war on the Eastern Front was fought.

Throughout the war the aircraft was continually improved upon, and several variants were designed, some for long range bombing, some for ground support etc. The effectiveness of production of the Yak-9 and its combat use showed that Soviet industry, in spite of great hardship and difficult conditions during wartime, was capable of producing military aircraft in great numbers that were effective in combat. The Yak-9 was to represent an icon of the Soviet air forces in WWII.

6. Consolidated B-24 Liberator (18,482 Produced)

More B-24s were produced during the Second World War than any other heavy bomber and by the end of the conflict it was one of the most significant aircraft of the Allied war in the air. Built in a total of over 18,482, B-24 production highlighted the war effort and production of the United States. The aircraft were delivered to Allied nations, primarily the United Kingdom, before and even as the United States formally entered the war.

Liberator’s Major Contributions:

• Largest heavy bomber production
• Long-range bombing capability
• Critical Allied air operations
• Effective maritime patrol missions
• Massive wartime manufacturing success

With its extensive range and bombing capabilities, the B-24 soon emerged as an integral asset to the Allied war effort in various theaters. The Liberator could penetrate far behind enemy lines and conduct crucial long-range maritime patrol duties. Among its many wartime duties was assisting with the battle against German U-boats in the Battle of the Atlantic by protecting Allied shipping and disrupting their submarine offensive.

Even though certain crews found the airplane to be more of a challenge to fly than other heavy bombers it still carried an invaluable package of speed, range, and bombload that it delivered to objectives in both Europe and the Pacific and demonstrated the value of large numbers, mass production, and a large target more than individual performance.

7. Focke-Wulf Fw-190 (Over 20,000 Produced)

Of all the World War II German fighter aircraft, few achieved the esteem of the Focke-Wulf Fw-190. With more than 20,000 units built it became one of the major aircraft types of the Luftwaffe. As it first took to the skies it provided unexpected performance that astonished its opponents and provided an instant and difficult obstacle for Allied aircraft. This innovative design would ensure it as one of the more historically impactful German aircraft of the war.

Fw-190’s Combat Advantages:

• Powerful fighter aircraft design
• Strong aerial combat performance
• Excellent maneuverability features
• Multi-role operational capability
• Major Allied fighter challenge

This aircraft was revered for its robust engine, its toughness, and the fantastic maneuverability. German pilots thought highly of its capabilities during aerial combat (particularly low to medium altitude where it shone). German airforce utilized this aircraft for multiple roles. It could serve as a fighter, as a fighter-bomber and a ground attack aircraft.

For part of the war the Fw-190 gives Germany air supremacy over her enemies. Allied pilots had to improve tactical methods and use new planes in order to match up against this excellent aircraft. While the subsequent Allied fighters would ultimately out-perform the Fw-190, this fighter was one of the most powerful and influential fighters of the second world war.

8. Supermarine Spitfire (20,351 Produced)

Arguably the best-known airplane of the Second World War and an enduring symbol of British aviation is the Supermarine Spitfire. Of more than 20,000 produced, these Spitfires provided the Royal Air Force with a significant fighter presence in each and every one of its theaters of operation during the war. With its distinctive, fluid lines, powerful engines, swift pace and stellar air-combat performance, it became one of the most storied aircraft in history and an emblem of British courage in the face of adversity.

Spitfire’s Key Attributes:

• Iconic British fighter aircraft
• Advanced aerodynamic design
• Powerful Merlin engine performance
• Battle of Britain symbol
• Long-lasting wartime effectiveness

The Spitfire’s advantages were achieved with a clever combination of excellent aerodynamics and the use of the powerful Rolls-Royce Merlin engine. This resulted in a fighter that had a great turn of speed and manoeuvrability in particular at altitude, where a large proportion of the enemy’s fighters found it difficult to perform as well as the ‘Spit’. These factors resulted in one of the finest fighters of WWII during some of its most crucial battles.

As the Battle of Britain raged, the Spitfire represented a iconic aspect of British resistance against the Luftwaffe. Though the Hurricane carried much of the weight of defensive flying, the Spitfire drew significant attention with its capabilities in fighting German fighters such as the Messerschmitt Bf-109. Ongoing wartime development ensured the fighter remained competitive across a range of situations, earning a place among legendary fighter aircraft.

9. Messerschmitt Bf-109 (33,984 Produced)

The Messerschmitt Bf 109 was the most-produced aircraft of the Axis powers of WWII and one of the most successful fighter planes ever produced. At more than 33,900, the Bf-109 made up the core of the German Luftwaffe fighter force and its performance and sophistication in the first few years of the war made it one of the most feared planes of its time.

Bf-109’s Major Features:

• Largest Axis aircraft production
• Advanced early fighter design
• Modern aviation technology features
• Continuous wartime improvements
• Versatile combat operations

The Bf-109 was revolutionary in its day and featured an all metal structure, covered cockpit and retractable landing gear, an advantage that put many of the older types to shame. This aircraft, first saw service with the Luftwaffe and gained vital combat experience in the Spanish Civil War where, along with a host of other types, it signaled the dawn of a new era of German aerial power and technological sophistication.

Over the course of World War II, however, the Bf-109 was able to hold its own due to the incessant process of improvement and refinement of this aircraft, who engaged in a great many missions as fighter interceptor, fighter-bomber, and reconnaissance plane. Even after the Allied airplanes caught up to and surpassed its abilities, the Bf-109 continued to be a strong fighter until the end of the war.

10. Ilyushin Il-2 (36,183 Produced)

Topping our list is the Ilyushin Il-2 which has the distinction of being the most-produced military aircraft in WWII and the second-most produced aircraft of all time in terms of aircraft production, with over 36,183 units constructed during the course of the war. This figure, representing a highly important Soviet ground-attack aircraft with the nickname “Stormovik” and “Flying Tank”, solidifies its importance as a plane on and above the battlefield, and is a testament to its war effectiveness.

Il-2’s Battlefield Importance:

• Highest wartime aircraft production
• Soviet ground attack aircraft
• Heavy battlefield protection design
• Direct troop support missions
• Symbol of Soviet industry

It was designed to help friendly troops on the ground by hitting tanks, artillery positions and enemy military groups. The tank-like armor meant that it was able to resist considerable ground fire and would often do so on dangerous ground. The Soviet army’s soldiers respected the Il-2 due to the crucial ground support role it performed during some of the toughest battles of the war on the Eastern Front.

Perhaps more interesting is the story behind its production. Because the Germans advanced further into the Soviet Union, many of their factories were moved far to the east to keep producing this aircraft on a gigantic scale, turning the Il-2 into more than a fighting aircraft, but into a symbol of industrial might that helped defeat the German armed forces.