WWII was when machine flight really changed. A modern air force depends on aircraft for control of the air, close support, strategic attack and all kinds of other missions and during the world wars, aircraft were built on a mass scale to satisfy the needs of the war effort. They operated across Europe, the Pacific and the eastern front, and from difficult, heavily armoured ground-attack planes to quick fighters and long-range bombers each was designed to perform specific missions in specific environments. The numbers produced also made a statement aircraft were involved in one of the most widespread, destructive conflicts in history.

Some of those planes became legendary due to their power, longevity, versatility or the roles they played in large campaigns. The Soviet Ilyushin Il-2 Sturmovik was the workhorse of the battlefield, the German Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighter was the Luftwaffe’s workhorse. Others like the British Supermarine Spitfire, American P-51 Mustang, or even the B-17 Flying Fortress aircraft became synonymous with Allied aircraft. In this article, we take a look at 10 of the most famous aircraft of WWII. We discuss their production numbers, features, uses, and importance to the history of military aircraft.

1. Ilyushin Il-2 Sturmovik

Legendary Soviet aircraft the Il-2 Sturmovik The Il-2 Sturmovik was the most-produced military aircraft in history, and its 36,183 aircraft were built by the Soviet Union during World War II. The aircraft was built to provide ground attack support to invading Soviet troops on the Eastern Front. The aircraft could deliver a payload of up to 1,000 lbs of high explosives on enemy positions and complicate their military activities. The aircraft’s tough armour earned it the nickname “flying tank”, as it was able to better protect its pilot and crew. The Il-2 ultimately played an integral role in helping ground troops push back against enemy formations.

Why the Il-2 Became a Battlefield Legend:

• 36,183 aircraft produced during wartime
• Designed specifically for ground attacks
• Carried up to 1,000 pounds
• Heavy armour protected vulnerable crews
• Supported Soviet Eastern Front offensives

More than just the largest flying aircraft the Il-2 was the lifeblood of many a battle. It’s protection made it able to carry out perilous missions and provide support to the ever-present troops on the front lines. It assaulted enemy positions, hindered operations and was synonymous with offensive strategies during the Eastern front. Such was the importance of the Il-2 that according to some accounts Joseph Stalin claimed Il-2 manufacturing in the USSR was as vital to the Red Army as bread and plane. From 1941-45 a total of 36,183 aircrafts were manufactured with the combined total of a further 9,147 Ilyushin Il-10s, the successor, totals 42,330 aircraft.

2. Messerschmitt Bf 109

The Bf 109 was one of the main German Luftwaffe fighter aircrafts in the Second World War, of which about 34,000 were built. Designed by Willy Messerschmitt and Robert Lusser during its development, the first flight was made on 29 May 1935, and was introduced to service from 1937. Powered by advanced liquid cooled engines, the aircraft combined streamlined aerodynamics with a closed cockpit canopy, retracting undercarriage and all-metal construction, and it was one of the most advanced aircraft of the era when it was introduced. Its performance, agility and straightforward construction meant that it was seen in many theatres of the Second World War, where it would engage in numerous dogfights with the Allied aircraft.

What Made the Bf 109 So Effective:

• Approximately 34,000 aircraft manufactured
• Powered by advanced Daimler-Benz engines
• Served across European battlefronts
• Performed interception and escort missions
• Remained competitive throughout the war

The Bf 109 evolved well beyond its original role as an interceptor, and served successfully in the bomber escort, fighter-bomber, ground-attack, reconnaissance and night-fighting roles. It was joint founder of the combined fighter and bomber force along with the Focke-Wulf Fw 190. The Bf 109 operated over every front in the European Theatre of World War II, with a particular emphasis over the Eastern Front, as well as the airspace of North Africa and the Mediterranean basin. Some of the highest scoring fighter aces in history flew the Bf 109 including Erich Hartmann, with 352 victories as well as some Nazi concentration camp prisoners, who were used in its manufacturing.

3. Supermarine Spitfire

One of Britain’s most well known fighter planes, the Supermarine Spitfire was built from 1938 to 1948 with over 20,351 made. This aircraft was designed by R. J. Mitchell and is most well known for its unique elliptical wings, ability to fly high and its amazing manoeuvrability when battling in the air. The elliptical wings of the Spitfire meant that it could reach speeds of 364mph to 450mph (can be other speeds depending on the model). During the Battle of Britain in 1940, the Spitfire was equipped with a variety of machine guns and cannons and was the most prevalent of the two planes, the other being the Hawker Hurricane.

The Spitfire’s Greatest Strengths:

• More than 20,351 aircraft manufactured
• Distinctive elliptical wings improved performance
• Played a major Battle role
• Adapted to changing combat requirements
• Served numerous Allied air forces

Spitfire was adaptable enough to enable the team to carry out continuous upgrades throughout the war. The first marks used a Rolls-Royce Merlin power plant, and as the war progressed the aircraft was fitted with a series of ever more powerful engines, such as the Griffon, which kept it up to speed with the newer or upgraded aircraft it faced. Not only did the aircraft undertake its well-known role of interceptor, but it also became a photo-reconnaissance aircraft, fighter-bomber and trainer aircraft, serving in European, Mediterranean, Pacific and South-East Asian theatres. It was the only British fighter aircraft to be produced continuously throughout the course of the war, and a carrier-based version, the Supermarine Seafire, also was operated by the Fleet Air Arm. Spitfires continued flying through the 1950s, and a few still take to the skies today, much to the appreciation of airshow fans and aviation buffs.

4. Focke-Wulf Fw 190

The Focke-Wulf Fw 190 was one of the best fighters developed by Germany, with over 20,000 produced for use during World War II. It was designed by Kurt Tank as a single-seat aircraft to be used for fighting purposes and introduced into the field in August 1941. The majority of the combat aircraft in service were equipped with BMW 801 engine, which was a highly reliable piston engine that offered the aircraft far greater power and allowed it to carry heavy loads than the comparable Messerschmitt Bf 109. The Fw 190 had a maximum speed of about 426 miles per hour and four powerful machine guns and cannons that made it deadly in the air.

The Fw 190’s Combat Capabilities:

• More than 20,000 aircraft produced
• Reached speeds near 426 mph
• Equipped with powerful machine guns
• Performed multiple combat roles
• Supported German ground-attack operations

The aircraft was first proven in combat in France, where its combat debut forced the Allied fighter defences on the coast to re-evaluate their fighters. It then later saw service in huge numbers on the Eastern front, where the aircraft supported fighter units and specialised ground attack formations. The aircraft has a number of operational roles including day fighting, fighter-bomber work, dive bombing, ground attack and limited night fighting. Early production versions of the aircraft suffered performance limitations at high altitude, which spurred efforts to develop improved variants of the aircraft with the introduction of the Fw 190D in September 1944 as well as subsequent variants that ultimately led to the Focke-Wulf Ta 152, which provided an aircraft of much better high-altitude performance but too late to truly alter the course of the war.

5. Consolidated B-24 Liberator

Flown from 1939 and used till the end of the World War II, The B-24 Liberator was the most-built American heavy bomber, with over 18,482 produced. The B-24 was designed by Consolidated Aircraft. The heavily armed, high wing bomber could carry a larger bomb load and fly further than most other aircraft of its type. Capable of flying 2,850 miles, the B-24 could carry a 8,000 lbs. Bomb load. The six and four-engine aircraft could also accommodate the eight and 11 machine guns and the B-24 was used extensively by the United States and the Allies.

Why the B-24 Was So Important:

• Approximately 18,482 aircraft manufactured
• Carried up to 8,000 pounds
• Flew approximately 2,850 miles
• Supported strategic bombing campaigns worldwide
• Conducted long-range anti-submarine missions

Assembly-line manufacture, standardised units and specialised labour in American industry all helped accommodate the B-24’s huge production rates. Of particular significance was Ford’s Willow Run facility, whose maximum rate was one Liberator every 63 minutes. The Liberator was deployed to all the major theatres, in US and several other Allied air forces. In addition to the Flying Fortress, it was the primary strategic bomber against western Europe, and its range proved useful in the Pacific; there were also specialised models that flew anti-submarine patrols over the Atlantic, bridging the Mid-Atlantic gap in the Battle of the Atlantic; finally, a dedicated transport version, the C-87 Liberator Express, meant there was more to the aeroplane than just war.

6. Yakovlev Yak-9

Yakovlev Yak-9, 16,769 Yakovlev Yak-9 fighters had been built by the end of the Second World War (1942–45), making it one of the most successful Soviet fighters. Development of the Yak-9 was based on the earlier Yak-7 model, though it had a much lighter structure, predominantly of metal, which allowed for a heavier fuselage and increased fuel capacity, and was endowed with better armament and handling qualities; a power plant of approximately 1,650 hp gave it a maximum speed of 374 mph. Its simple mechanical design made it easily repairable by local repair personnel and an advantage to the Soviet air forces engaged in the Second World War, in which it was active from October 1942.

The Yak-9’s Battlefield Advantages:

• 16,769 aircraft produced overall
• Reached speeds around 374 mph
• Simple design supported easier maintenance
• Protected Soviet frontline ground operations
• Helped challenge German fighter dominance

The Yak-9 proved versatile, fighting as an effective fighter or in the ground-attack role. Its ability to operate at low and medium altitude meant that the Yak-9 could challenge German fighters such as the Bf 109 and Fw 190. It helped to establish Soviet air superiority once more in several important battles, such as the Kursk campaign of 1943. Variants of the Yak-9 provided anti-tank capability, mounted heavier 20mm guns and had increased range for bomber escort duties, protecting aircraft in Eastern Europe; the type operated alongside heavily armoured aircraft, such as the Ilyushin Il-2. Several versions were introduced after the war, and the type saw service with the North Korean Air Force in the Korean War.

7. Republic P-47 Thunderbolt

The aircraft; used during the second world war was the most produced American aircraft during World War II, (it was been said that 16235 of these aircraft were produced). The aircraft was known as the ‘Jug’ because of the amount of it and the shape of the machine, it is also believed that it was known as the Jug because it was also about the same size and it look about the same size as a jug. The aircraft was built with a 2,0000 hp engine; it was said that the aircraft was able to fly at speeds of 431 miles per hour.

What Distinguished the P-47 Thunderbolt:

• More than 16,000 aircraft produced
• Powerful 2,000-horsepower engine fitted
• Eight .50-calibre machine guns
• Strong performance during high-speed dives
• Effective escort and ground-attack duties

The P-47 had eight.50-calibre machine guns. It was also capable of carrying bombs or rockets to engage ground targets. The turbocharged engine allowed the P-47 to achieve high-altitude performance, helping it in its role as a bomber escort, guiding Allied planes over enemy territory. Once with the bombers for a long-range sortie, the pilot would attack vehicles, railway equipment and other ground objects. The P-47 saw action both in Europe and in the Pacific theatre, where its rugged construction made it invaluable in the post-D-Day offensive. It was also used by the air forces of Britain, France and the Soviet Union. Production ceased after the end of the Second World War, but the aircraft remained in service with a number of air forces in the years afterward.

8. North American P-51 Mustang

The North American P-51 Mustang was the most successful of the famous WWII Allied fighters having sold over 15,000 aircraft. It all started when North American Aviation was asked by the British if they would be interested in building a fighter to supplement those already in service, this being the NA-73X prototype, which first flew on 26 October 1940. A packard-built Allison engine was originally fitted although it did not perform well at high altitude as compared to what the aircraft was capable of, however, when fitted with a Rolls Royce Merlin engine its performance was greatly enhanced at high altitude without the trade off of the aircraft’s long-range performance so renowned.

The Mustang’s Strategic Advantages:

• More than 15,000 aircraft manufactured
• Merlin engine improved high-altitude performance
• Escorted bombers deep into Germany
• Challenged defending enemy fighter formations
• Combined endurance with combat manoeuvrability

From late 1943 onwards, the Mustang B and C, and later the P-51D, became vital elements in the protection of the American bombers on raids over Germany. The Mustang’s long range meant that it could stay with the bombers for longer than previous fighters, thus escorting them over distances where fighters had previously been unable to provide cover. As they attacked the enemy interceptors before they could reach the bombers, the Mustang pilots helped to cut bomber losses and gain air supremacy over the German skies. The Mustang was also used as a fighter-bomber and a ground attack aircraft. It served in the North African, Mediterranean, Italian and Pacific theatres, while Mustang pilots claimed thousands of enemy planes shot down during the war.

9. Hawker Hurricane

The Hurricane was a key component of Britain’s fighter force in the early part of World War II. 14,487 units were built in Britain and Canada from 1937 through 1944 along with other examples elsewhere. The work of Sydney Camm, the Hurricane entered service with the Royal Air Force in December 1937. The plane was capable of attaining a speed of roughly 340 mph and reach an altitude of nearly 35,000 feet. Its simple construction made it fairly easy to manufacture and maintain, enabling Squadrons to perform many vital repairs without assistance from elsewhere.

The Hurricane’s Contribution to Britain’s Defence:

• Approximately 14,487 aircraft built
• Reached speeds around 340 mph
• Played a major Battle role
• Reliable construction simplified field maintenance
• Served across multiple wartime theatres

During the Battle of Britain, the Hurricane proved to be a reliable, workhorse for the Royal Air Force, and despite being overshadowed by the Spitfire, it was responsible for the destruction of a majority of the German aircraft during the conflict. It scored the most kills of any British fighter during the battle. The Hurricane then went on to be used in a wide variety of roles, including interception, fighter-bomber and ground attack, with the “Sea Hurricane” having been adapted for use at sea, and some aircraft being modified for use as a convoys on-deck takeoff platform. The Hurricane flew with the Royal Canadian Air Force, Royal Navy and Soviet Air Force. The aircraft’s durability and adaptability allowed it to have a use in a variety of theatres during the war.

10. Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress

The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress was the most iconic heavy-bomber of World War II with a total of 12,731 of the aircraft being built from 1936 until 1945. Boeing originally designed the four-engined bomber for the United States Army Air Corps and the prototype of the aircraft first flight was on 28 July 1935 before the aircraft began service in 1938. It was intended to be a strategic bomber for attacking key enemy targets from locations far away from the battlefield. The aircraft could carry up to 8,000 pounds of bombs 2,000 miles and was renowned for its ability to absorb battle damage.

The Flying Fortress’s Wartime Strengths:

• 12,731 aircraft produced during wartime
• Carried up to 8,000 pounds
• Flew missions exceeding 2,000 miles
• Defensive armament protected bomber formations
• Became central to strategic bombing

Used predominantly in the European theatre of operations, the USAAF mounted daylight strategic bombing raids against the German military, industrial and other related targets using the B-17. With an armament of up to 13.50-calibre machine guns, the B-17 was equipped to defend itself from attacking fighters in formation. The aircraft became revered as a ‘flying fortress’ after surviving damage that would have destroyed other aircraft while still being able to make it home with its crew intact. The B-17 also served early in the Pacific theatre, attacking Japanese shipping and airfields as well as taking on transport, anti-submarine warfare and search and rescue roles. Together with the B-24 Liberator, the B-17 contributed significantly to allied air power through its production, long range and strategic bombing role.