The 12 Most Lethal Aircraft Armaments from WW2

During the turmoil of World War II, the skies became a critical battleground. The aircraft armament revolution of the period saw an impressive diversity of weaponry. These guns, cannons, and rockets, each tailored for specific combat roles, proved decisive in both air superiority and ground support missions. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of the most formidable aerial armaments that dictated the nature of dogfights and bombings.

The MG FF Cannon

The MG FF Cannon significantly enhanced the firepower of key German aircraft during World War II. In the Messerschmitt Bf 109, a prominent Luftwaffe fighter, it was typically installed with two MG FF cannons mounted in the wings, alongside two synchronized machine guns above the engine, providing a robust offensive capability suitable for air-to-air and ground engagements. Likewise, the Focke-Wulf Fw 190, known for its durability and superior firepower, utilized two MG FF cannons within the wing roots to boost its effectiveness in aerial dogfights and ground attacks. Additionally, the Junkers Ju 87 Stuka, recognized by its distinct inverted gull wings and chilling dive siren, was equipped in certain variants with wing-mounted MG FF cannons, primarily for attacking ground targets, delivering high-explosive shells to devastate enemy troops, vehicles, and fortifications.

Expanding its utility, the MG FF cannon was also integrated into the versatile Junkers Ju 88 twin-engine bomber, which performed roles ranging from level and torpedo bombing to reconnaissance. For defensive operations, some Ju 88 variants included MG FF cannons on flexible mounts, enabling effective engagement in aerial combat and protection during bomber escort missions. This diverse application of the MG FF cannon across various Luftwaffe platforms illustrates its pivotal role in boosting combat capacities, reflecting the German air force’s strategic focus on deploying adaptable and powerful armaments to fulfill a broad spectrum of wartime objectives.

The M2 Browning Machine Gun

The M2 Browning Machine Gun, a .50 caliber heavyweight, served prominently across various battle theaters in World War II, meticulously integrated into several aircraft to bolster their combat capabilities. Its significant roles spanned from defense to aggressive assaults, marking it as a versatile and relentless component of allied air power.

The Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress, a vanguard in the USAAF’s heavy bombing campaigns over Europe and the Pacific, was outfitted with multiple M2 Brownings. These guns were strategically positioned in the nose, dorsal, ventral, and waist gun slots, providing a formidable defensive perimeter against enemy fighters during lengthy bombing missions. Similarly, the North American P-51 Mustang, celebrated for its range and agility as a fighter and later as a bomber escort, packed six to eight M2 Brownings in its wings. This heavy armament configuration enabled the Mustang to deliver devastating blows in air-to-air and ground assault operations, drastically enhancing its effectiveness throughout the European and Pacific theaters.

Additionally, the Grumman F6F Hellcat, a cornerstone of the United States Navy’s carrier-based fighter force, utilized six wing-mounted M2 Browning machine guns to secure air dominance in the Pacific. Its formidable firepower proved crucial in turning the tide against Japanese aerial forces. Meanwhile, the Douglas A-20 Havoc, employed extensively by Allied forces as a light bomber and ground attack aircraft, featured M2 Brownings in nose, dorsal, and ventral mounts. This arrangement augmented its capacity for precision strikes and allowed for more aggressive ground support operations, highlighting the M2’s adaptability and lethality in varied combat roles across multiple types of aircraft.

The MAC 1934 Machine Gun

The MAC 1934 Machine Gun, known formally as the “Fusil Mitrailleur Modèle 1934,” was an integral part of French military aviation during World War II. Designed and manufactured by Manufacture d’Armes de Châtellerault (MAC), this air-cooled, gas-operated machine gun earned its place as the standard aircraft armament for the French Air Force—the Armée de l’Air. Robust and reliable, the MAC 1934 was developed in the early 1930s with the intent to replace older machine gun models, making advancements in terms of maintainability and the capacity for sustained fire.

This weapon was deployed on a variety of French aircraft including the Morane-Saulnier MS.406, a fighter aircraft known for its crucial role in the early stages of the war and the Battle of France in 1948. Another notable aircraft armed with the MAC 1934 was the Dewoitine D.520, a fighter famed for its adept handling and combat performance against German forces. The Bloch MB.152, a reinvigorated French fighter that tackled prior models’ deficiencies, also utilized the MAC 1934 to provide formidable firepower and improved combat resilience. Additionally, the LeO 451, a French medium bomber by Lioré et Olivier, utilized the MAC 1934 for defense, featuring multiple guns across various positions to protect against enemy interception.

Despite France’s defeat and occupation in 1940, the MAC 1934’s production continued under German oversight. Even after the fall of France, captured MAC 1934 machine guns were repurposed by the Axis powers, predominantly for training and secondary operational roles. Interestingly, the MAC 1934 also served the Vichy French Air Force and the Free French Forces, exhibiting its persistent utility throughout the conflict. The gun’s prevalence in the French Air Force during the dramatic early years of World War II underlines its significance in both the defense and aerial combat efforts of the period.

The Hispano-Suiza HS.404 Autocannon

The Hispano-Suiza HS.404 Autocannon stood out during World War II as a significant leap forward in aircraft armament, critically augmenting the offensive strike capabilities of key Allied and French fighter planes. Its integration into aircraft like the French Arsenal VG.33 and Morane-Saulnier MS.406, where it was often mounted to fire through the propeller hub from the fuselage, streamlined air-to-air combat tactics. These strategic placements enabled concentrated firepower directly ahead, heightening the potential for damage during engagements. Similarly, in British aviation, the cannon’s incorporation into designs such as the Hawker Hurricane and the Supermarine Spitfire showcased its adaptability and effectiveness. The fighters equipped with the HS.404, particularly the Spitfire with its wing-mounted cannon pods, exemplified a balance of increased lethality and preserved flight performance, marking a pivotal evolution in aerial combat.

The adaptation of the Hispano-Suiza HS.404 across these varied platforms underlined its esteemed standing for reliability, potency, and its capability to provide a tactical edge. Particularly noteworthy was its role in enhancing the Supermarine Spitfire’s armament alongside traditional machine guns, thereby crafting a more formidable air-to-air combatant. This transition not only signified an upgrade in firepower but also symbolized the broader strategic shift towards prioritizing more powerful and efficient weapons systems in the aerial warfare doctrine of the Allies. The widespread utilization of the HS.404 autocannon across multiple aircraft types highlighted its instrumental role in shaping combat outcomes, reinforcing its legacy as a crucial component of World War II aviation arsenals.

The Vickers Machine Gun

The Vickers Machine Gun emerged as a dependable and robust mainstay within the British and Commonwealth forces during the first half of the 20th century, particularly throughout World War I and II. Its origins date back to the late 19th century when it was designed by the American inventor, Hiram Maxim, with Vickers Limited later taking over production. This belt-fed, water-cooled medium machine gun, chambered in the .303 British caliber, distinguished itself on the battlefield with its impressive reliability and a rate of fire of around 450-500 rounds per minute. Weighing approximately 15.5 kg for the gun body, with a length of 1,143 mm, the Vickers had an effective range of up to 1,830 meters, making it a formidable defensive tool in both ground and air engagements.

Adapted for airborne operations, the Vickers machine gun served on a variety of aircraft, including the tough and agile Sopwith Camel, a British World War I fighter that bore the Vickers as a synchronized weapon firing through the spinning propeller. During World War II, it continued to provide defensive firepower on the stalwarts of the Royal Air Force—the Avro Lancaster heavy bomber and the Vickers Wellington medium bomber. The Vickers K variant, a machine gun that was lighter and capable of a higher rate of fire, was mounted in different positions on these aircraft, enabling them to ward off enemy fighters. Despite new technological advancements leading to the adoption of weapons like the Bren gun and the Browning M1919, the Vickers machine gun remained a fixture, demonstrating its lasting impact and versatility in both infantry support roles and aerial defense.

The M1919 Browning Machine Gun

Developed by the esteemed firearms designer John Browning and emerging onto the military scene in 1919, the M1919 Browning machine gun became a quintessential armament for the Allied forces during the tumult of the 20th century’s global conflicts. This .30 caliber, air-cooled machine gun, praised for its reliability, durability, and ease of maintenance, was a product of innovation and strategic necessity, manufactured by several notable companies including Colt, Saginaw Steering Gear Division, and General Motors. Its versatile design allowed for deployment in various military applications, initially envisioned for ground-based infantry support, but its adaptability soon facilitated its integration into armored vehicles, ships, and crucially, aircraft.

During World War II, the M1919 solidified its reputation as an indispensable component of military hardware across multiple theaters of war. It was mounted on an array of aircraft such as the B-17 Flying Fortress and B-24 Liberator, serving as defensive armament to fend off enemy fighters during critical bombing missions. Fighter aircraft like the P-51 Mustang and P-47 Thunderbolt also utilized the M1919, with the Mustang variants, for instance, augmenting their firepower with wing-mounted machine guns. The M1919’s efficacy in aerial combat not only underscored its pivotal role in the success of air operations but also marked a continuation of John Browning’s legacy, demonstrating the enduring influence of his design principles well into the conflict-ridden mid-20th century.

The MK 108 Cannon

The MK 108 cannon was a pivotal German autocannon widely used during World War II, crafted by Rheinmetall-Borsig, with production extending across various German manufacturers like Mauser. Its design specifically addressed the need for a compact yet powerful autocannon capable of being mounted on aircraft for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. Weighing in at approximately 115 kg (253 lb) and measuring 1,380 mm (54.3 in) in length, this 30mm caliber weapon was renowned for its devastating firepower. With an impressive rate of fire of about 650-700 rounds per minute and an effective range up to 600 meters (1,970 ft), the MK 108 could deliver high-velocity shells with muzzle speeds ranging between 540-560 m/s (1,770-1,840 ft/s), utilizing either drum or belt-fed ammunition systems.

The cannon found its way onto several key German aircraft, marking a significant enhancement in air combat capabilities. Notably, the Messerschmitt Bf 109, one of the war’s most iconic fighters, and the Focke-Wulf Fw 190, both incorporated the MG 131, which often included the MK 108 for its primary armament in various combat roles. Another remarkable platform was the revolutionary Me 262 jet fighter, which utilized the MK 108 as its main weapon, proving especially effective against Allied bombers. Even the late-war Heinkel He 162 Volksjäger jet fighter was outfitted with these cannons, underlining the MK 108’s critical role in Germany’s air defense efforts during the latter stages of the conflict. Despite facing challenges such as issues with accuracy and reliability, the MK 108’s sheer destructive power and the innovative design ensured it remained a key component of the Luftwaffe’s arsenal until World War II’s end.

The MG 15 Machine Gun

The MG 15 machine gun, a distinguished German 7.92 mm machine gun,was crafted in the early 1930s with a focus on aerial combat applications. Developed by the esteemed arms manufacturer Rheinmetall-Borsig, this air-cooled, belt-fed machine gun was optimally designed for usage in combat aircraft, demonstrating adaptability and reliability through its specifications. With a caliber of 7.92×57mm Mauser, the MG 15 weighed approximately 9.9 kg (21.8 lb) without ammunition and boasted an impressive rate of fire of about 1,000 rounds per minute. Its effective range reached up to 1,000 meters (3,280 ft), powered by a belt-fed system typically utilizing 75-round belts and achieving a muzzle velocity of around 755 m/s (2,477 ft/s).

Remarkably versatile, the MG 15 was mounted on a variety of Luftwaffe aircraft, serving multiple roles across the German aerial fleet. Aircraft like the Junkers Ju 52 transport, Dornier Do 17 reconnaissance, Junkers Ju 87 ‘Stuka’ dive bomber, and Heinkel He 111 bomber, all benefited from the defensive capabilities of this machine gun, employing it to fend off enemy fighters during missions. Despite the introduction of more advanced machine gun designs as the war progressed, the MG 15’s reliability and versatility ensured it remained a vital component of the Luftwaffe’s arsenal, underlining its significant role in the dynamics of aerial combat during World War II.

The MG 81 Machine Gun

The MG 81 was a notable machine gun used by the German Luftwaffe during World War II, aimed at enhancing airborne firepower. Developed by Mauser, a prominent German arms manufacturer, the MG 81 was an air-cooled, belt-fed machine gun firing 7.92×57mm Mauser ammunition. As a successor to the MG 15, it was esteemed for its high firing rate, approximately 1,350 rounds per minute, and was poised to effectively engage targets at a range of up to 1,000 meters (3,280 ft) with a muzzle velocity of around 755 m/s (2,477 ft/s). The MG 81, which weighed about 10.7 kg (23.6 lb) without ammunition, had a recoil-operated, full-automatic firing system, and typically used 50 or 75-round belts. With a length of 1,030 mm (40.6 in) and a barrel length of 545 mm (21.5 in), the gun was praised for its robust construction and ease of maintenance.

The MG 81’s adaptability saw it mounted on various Luftwaffe aircraft, including bombers and fighters, enhancing their defensive and offensive capabilities. Among the aircraft equipped with this gun were the Messerschmitt Bf 109, a leading German fighter, the versatile Junkers Ju 88 bomber, and the Heinkel He 111, which used the MG 81 for its defensive positions against enemy fighters. Even the formidable Focke-Wulf Fw 190 fighter sometimes included the MG 81. The gun’s introduction in the early 1940s marked it as a staple in Luftwaffe arsenals; despite technological advancements in aircraft weaponry, the MG 81’s reliability ensured its use throughout the conflict, showcasing its vital role in aerial combat scenarios during the war.

The MG 17 Machine Gun

Developed by Rheinmetall-Borsig in the mid-1930s for the German Luftwaffe, the MG 17 machine gun became a standard fixture on a number of German aircraft during World War II. This air-cooled, belt-fed machine gun was appreciated for its lightweight design, weighing approximately 10.5 kg (23 lb), and its effective range of up to 1,000 meters (3,280 ft). With a caliber of 7.92×57mm Mauser, it was capable of firing about 1,200 rounds per minute with a muzzle velocity of 755 m/s (2,477 ft/s). At a length of 1,045 mm (41.1 in) and with a 550 mm (21.7 in) barrel, the full-automatic, recoil-operated MG 17 was known for its reliability. Aircraft such as the relentless Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighter, the multipurpose Messerschmitt Bf 110, the infamous Junkers Ju 87 Stuka dive bomber, and the versatile Heinkel He 111 bomber came standard with this formidable machine gun.

The MG 17 played a pivotal role in the early years of the war, bolstering the offensive and defensive capabilities of the Luftwaffe with its dependable performance. However, as the war progressed and aerial combat required more powerful armaments, the MG 17 was gradually replaced by heavier machine guns like the MG 131 and the MG 151/20. Despite this, the MG 17’s impact was significant and enduring, as it provided a critical edge to the Luftwaffe’s fighter and bomber units during the formative and middle years of the conflict, cementing its place in the annals of military aviation history.

The Werfer-Granate 21 Rocket Launcher

In 1943, the German Luftwaffe introduced the Werfer-Granate 21 Rocket Launcher, or BR 21, produced by Rheinmetall-Borsig, to bolster its ground attack prowess during World War II. This air-launched weapon, known for its high-explosive fragmentation warhead, weighed around 25 kilograms (55 lb) and measured approximately 1.4 meters (55 in) in length with a diameter of 21 centimeters (8.3 in). Capable of reaching speeds up to 300 meters per second (984 ft/s) and an effective range of 2,000 meters (6,560 ft), the WGr. 21 became feared for its ability to inflict significant damage on enemy ground forces and installations. The rocket’s electric ignition system underscored the lethal efficiency and innovative design that was typical of German wartime armaments, making it a versatile addition to the Luftwaffe’s arsenal.

Adopted by several key aircraft including the Messerschmitt Bf 109G and the Focke-Wulf Fw 190, the WGr. 21 significantly enhanced their ground-attack capabilities, while the Junkers Ju 87 Stuka and Junkers Ju 88 bombers incorporated the rockets to augment their bomb loads for more effective ground-target engagements. The introduction of the WGr. 21 exemplified the Luftwaffe’s adaptation to the evolving demands of aerial warfare by providing a means to deliver devastating high-explosive payloads with precision. Throughout its deployment, the Werfer-Granate 21 Rocket Launcher contributed to the Luftwaffe’s operational flexibility in anti-personnel and anti-armor missions, showcasing the innovative spirit and technological advancements that characterized World War II’s arms development narrative, leaving a lasting impact on military aviation history.

The MG 131 Machine Gun

The MG 131 Machine Gun, or Maschinengewehr 131, was a pivotal fixture in the German Luftwaffe’s arsenal during World War II. Conceived in 1938 and produced by the iconic arms manufacturer Mauser, the gun entered service in 1940, serving until the war’s conclusion in 1945. The belt-fed, air-cooled MG 131, chambered for the 13x64mmB cartridge, was remarkable for its relatively lightweight design at about 16.3 kg (36 lb) and a high rate of fire between 900 to 1,200 rounds per minute. With a barrel length of 730 mm (28.7 in) and an overall length of 1,229 mm (48.4 in), the MG 131 could effectively engage targets up to 1,000 meters (3,280 ft), delivering rounds at a muzzle velocity of approximately 720 m/s (2,362 ft/s).

Mounted on a variety of aircraft, the MG 131 provided offensive and defensive firepower. It was commonly fitted on the Messerschmitt Bf 109, a mainstay of German fighter aircraft, and the formidable Focke-Wulf Fw 190. Furthermore, it lent defensive capabilities to the famed Junkers Ju 87 Stuka dive bomber and served in various capacities aboard the versatile Junkers Ju 88. Despite facing manufacturing challenges due to resource shortages and the pressure of Allied air superiority, the MG 131 remained a reliable and effective machine gun, demonstrating the rigorous demands of aerial combat and serving as a testament to Mauser’s engineering excellence.