Aircraft

The most unique feature of the B-36 was its unusual hybrid propulsion system, combining both propeller and jet engines.

While the N-102 proved capable, the Air Force instead opted for the Lockheed submission, the CL-246—which went on to become the F-104 Starfighter.

Built by defense contractor L3Harris, the OA-1K Skyraider II won the Armed Overwatch Program and is designed to provide special operations forces with reliable and effective close air support capabilities.

The Folgore’s lightweight construction (weighing around 5,500 pounds) and responsive handling earned it praise from its pilots and avowed respect from its adversaries.

This bird is an enduring symbol of Soviet resistance—and perseverance—during the darkest days of what Russians refer to as the “Great Patriotic War.”

Ultimately, the Meteor was not great and not terrible. It was a steady, reliable bird, and proved useful for the British and Allied air forces.

The jet boasted a top speed of approximately 540 miles per hour, far surpassing the fastest Allied piston-engine fighters.

Currently, the British military operates approximately 146 fighter aircraft, including 111 Eurofighter Typhoons and 35 F-35B Lightning IIs.

The VISTA and VENOM projects—both of which utilize experimental F-16 Fighting Falcons—are the beginning of the end for manned military flying.

First flown in the 1970s, the F-16 is still heavily relied upon, particularly among smaller militaries without the resources to fly and maintain larger and more expensive planes such as...

The Air Force passed on the YF-17 prototype, preferring the more agile F-16. But Navy planners liked it—ultimately transforming it into the venerable F/A-18.

Despite various design refinements in the AV8-B, the updated Harrier is still regarded as difficult to fly.