5 Forgotten Axis Planes That Almost Turned The Tide
YouTube / Military Aviation History
1. Macchi C.202 Folgore (Italy)
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The Macchi C.202 Folgore was a highly effective Italian fighter that often gets overshadowed by the Allied and German aircraft of the era. Fast, agile, and equipped with a powerful engine, the Folgore proved itself in battles over North Africa and the Mediterranean. Its performance rivaled many Allied planes, but its limited production and lack of post-war fame have kept it relatively obscure.
2. Nakajima Ki-43 “Oscar” (Japan)
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The Nakajima Ki-43, known as the “Oscar” by the Allies, was a lightweight and highly maneuverable fighter used by the Japanese Army Air Force. Though it lacked the firepower and armor of other fighters, the Ki-43’s agility made it a deadly opponent in dogfights across the Pacific. Despite being overshadowed by the more famous Mitsubishi Zero, the Oscar had a lasting impact in many crucial battles.
3. Heinkel He 162 Volksjäger (Germany)
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Towards the end of the war, Germany introduced the Heinkel He 162 Volksjäger, a jet-powered fighter intended for rapid mass production using non-strategic materials. Despite being rushed into service, the He 162’s advanced jet engine represented a leap in aviation technology. While it arrived too late to change the war’s outcome, it laid the groundwork for future jet fighter development, showing what could have been in a prolonged conflict.
4. Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 “Sparviero” (Italy)
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The Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 “Sparviero” was an Italian medium bomber that gained fame as a torpedo bomber. It became one of the most effective anti-shipping aircraft in the Mediterranean, sinking numerous Allied vessels. The SM.79’s speed and maneuverability allowed it to evade enemy fighters and deliver devastating attacks, earning it a feared reputation among Allied naval forces.
5. Nakajima Ki-44 “Tojo” (Japan)
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The Nakajima Ki-44 “Tojo” was a Japanese interceptor designed to counter the growing threat of Allied bombers. Unlike many Japanese fighters of the era, which prioritized agility, the Ki-44 was built for speed and firepower. It played a crucial role in defending the Japanese home islands, particularly against B-29 raids, and influenced the development of later Japanese aircraft.
