The CONVAIR YB-60, developed in the 1950s as a strategic bomber, resulted in only one fully operational aircraft.| PlaneHistoria
The Republic XF-91 Thunderceptor, initially known as the XP-91, is a prototype interceptor aircraft with a mixed-propulsion system| PlaneHistoria
The He 111Z Zwilling (translated as "twin" in English) was an inventive design that combined two He 111 aircraft| PlaneHistoria
The Messerschmitt Me 609 represents another intriguing but ultimately unrealized design in the history of aircraft design during World War II.| PlaneHistoria
The German Gotha Go 242 glider stands out as a symbol of innovative engineering & pragmatic solutions to the multifaceted challenges in WW2| PlaneHistoria
During the Korean War, the B-50 was not utilized for bombing missions, as the Air Force preferred using the B-29 for such operations| PlaneHistoria
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The He 177 Greif was big, fast and carried a large bomb load. It was also terribly unreliable and had a slightly concerning tendency of catching fire in flight. This is well known, with plenty of memes and jokes even dating back to the Second World War, but why did this actually happen? Why was this otherwise promising aircraft doomed from the start? Well, it was all to do with its overstressed, poorly engineered engines that got so hot they would essentially spontaneously combust. Lets take ...| PlaneHistoria
The Avro Vulcan, a revolutionary aircraft, emerged as a symbol of British engineering prowess during the Cold War. This iconic...| PlaneHistoria
The Lockheed P-2 Neptune, initially known as the P2V until a nomenclature change by the United States Navy in September 1962, is a specialized aircraft designed for maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations. Lockheed developed this aircraft for the US Navy as a successor to the Lockheed PV-1 Ventura and PV-2 Harpoon, and it was later superseded by the Lockheed P-3 Orion. Although primarily a land-based platform, a select number of Neptunes were adapted for carrier launches u...| PlaneHistoria
Nose art is a decorative painting or design on the fuselage of an aircraft, typically on the front fuselage or nose section. This unique form of artistic expression has adorned military and civilian aircraft for over a century, reflecting the personal touches of pilots and crews, and serving as a morale booster during times of war and peace. The tradition of nose art is steeped in history, cultural significance, and artistic diversity, embodying the spirit and stories of the aircraft and thei...| PlaneHistoria
The Airspeed Horsa, an iconic British troop-carrying glider, played a pivotal role during World War II. Named after the legendary Anglo-Saxon warrior Horsa, it was designed to transport troops, equipment, and supplies into battle zones without the need for an airfield. This silent and stealthy vehicle significantly contributed to the success of several critical operations, most notably the D-Day landings and Operation Market Garden. Contents Development and Design The origins of the Horsa gli...| PlaneHistoria
In 1973, British television audiences were introduced to a documentary unlike any other. The World at War. The World at War, a 26-part series, set out to chronicle the entire scope of the Second World War. Produced by Thames Television at a then-astonishing cost of £880,000…over £14 million in today’s money…it was, at the time, the most expensive factual series ever attempted. The opening sequence and music live on. The Voice The series was narrated by Sir Laurence Olivier, whose meas...| PlaneHistoria
In the aftermath of World War II, the United States embarked on a series of nuclear tests at the Bikini Atoll. The Atoll is situated in the Marshall Islands. The tests marked a significant chapter in the history of nuclear warfare and its profound impact on both the environment and human lives. The Selection of Bikini Atoll Bikini Atoll was chosen for nuclear testing due to its remote location and minimal human habitation. In 1946, the U.S. government relocated the 167 indigenous Bikinians to...| PlaneHistoria
The use of parachutes in a military context stretches back over three centuries, evolving from a daring experiment into a standardised element of modern warfare. The concept of jumping from great heights with a device to slow descent has long captured the imagination of inventors and soldiers alike. Someone Had to Go First The first documented parachute design is attributed to Sebastian Lenormand, a Frenchman who in 1783 demonstrated a rigid-framed parachute that allowed a person to descend s...| PlaneHistoria
Defensive turrets on bomber aircraft represent a significant evolution in aerial combat tactics and aircraft design. These installations allowed bombers to defend themselves against enemy fighters during missions. Originating in World War I, the technology saw extensive refinement through World War II and into the early years of the Cold War. Contents Historical Development In the early days of World War I, aircraft primarily served reconnaissance roles, but as the war progressed, their poten...| PlaneHistoria
When discussing Cold War aviation and the iconic aircraft of the 20th century, few names resonate as strongly as MiG. Short for Mikoyan-Gurevich, the MiG series of fighters became synonymous with Soviet air power, showcasing innovation, adaptability, and the strategic priorities of the USSR across decades of global tension. From the Korean War to modern aerial conflicts, MiG fighters have left an indelible mark on military aviation. Beginning The MiG story begins with the founding of the Miko...| PlaneHistoria
The Bell UH‑1 Iroquois, better known simply as the Huey, is one of the most iconic aircraft of the Vietnam War.| PlaneHistoria
The Westland Whirlwind, twin-engine, single-seat fighter could have revolutionized aerial combat. It was the most heavily armed fighter| PlaneHistoria
The P-47 Thunderbolt, affectionately known as the "Jug," emerged as one of the most iconic American fighters during the Second World War.| PlaneHistoria
The XP-58 Chain Lightning stands as a noteworthy example of Lockheed's ambitious attempt to create a long-range, high-altitude...| PlaneHistoria
From 1971 to 1987, the Swiss Air Force operated the F+W C-3605, also known as "Schlepp" ("Tug") or "Alpine Anteater,"| PlaneHistoria
Fairey Rotodyne emerged in post-war Britain, a time when both civil and military aviation were undergoing rapid advancements.| PlaneHistoria
The Hamilcar Glider, officially known as the General Aircraft Hamilcar, represents a remarkable innovation in military aviation during the...| PlaneHistoria