6 Most Underrated WWII Fighters Who Deserve More Credit

World War II saw the rise of many incredible fighter planes that each played their roles in the skies above various battlefields around the world. While some aircraft like the Spitfire and the Mustang often capture the spotlight, there are several others that performed incredibly well but seldom receive the recognition they deserve. Here, we shine a light on six such underappreciated fighters of WWII, explaining why each of these deserves more credit than it typically gets.

1. Brewster F2A Buffalo

At the start of WWII, the Brewster F2A Buffalo was one of the primary fighters of the U.S. Navy. Despite its less glamorous reputation, especially when compared to its successors, the Buffalo holds its own history of effectiveness, particularly in the hands of Finnish pilots against Soviet forces. The Buffalo was quicker and more maneuverable than many give it credit for, especially in skilled hands. It had strengths such as good armor and firepower that were respectable during the early war years.

2. Curtiss P-40 Warhawk

The Curtiss P-40 Warhawk had a standout role in North Africa and the Pacific theaters, known for its ruggedness and reliability under tough conditions. Serving in various environments, it was one of the most versatile fighters, capable of both ground-attack and air-to-air missions. While not as fast at high altitudes as some of its contemporaries, the Warhawk’s rugged build and ability to withstand significant damage made it a valuable asset throughout the war.

3. Hawker Typhoon

Known primarily for its role as a ground attack aircraft, the Hawker Typhoon was also a capable fighter. Initially plagued by engine reliability issues, once these were resolved, it showcased immense potential. Most effective at lower altitudes, the Typhoon was equipped with powerful cannons and could carry a substantial payload of rockets and bombs, making it deadly against tanks and trains.

4. Yakovlev Yak-9

The Soviet Union’s Yakovlev Yak-9 was a pivotal part of their air force, yet it’s not as widely recognized as it should be. This fighter was crucial in gaining air superiority on the Eastern Front. It was light, fast, and incredibly agile, allowing pilots to take on more cumbersome enemy aircraft with confidence. This craft made significant contributions to weakening German airpower and aided significantly in Soviet advances.

5. Macchi M.C. 202 Folgore

Italian engineering demonstrated through the Macchi M.C. 202 Folgore, brought a level of grace and effectiveness to the Italian air force. It combined good speed and maneuverability with an effective aerodynamic design. Though it was underarmed compared to its contemporaries, its performance in the Mediterranean theater was noteworthy, providing much-needed support against Allied air forces.

6. Bristol Beaufighter

The Bristol Beaufighter, often overshadowed by more famous contemporaries, was a British aircraft that excelled as a night fighter and anti-shipping aircraft. This heavy fighter was equipped with radar, an innovation that allowed it to perform deadly night-time raids. Its ability to carry torpedoes and heavy bombs made it particularly effective in maritime missions, disrupting enemy supply lines and shipping routes. The Beaufighter’s robustness and adaptability in different combat roles, combined with its prowess in radar technology, make it an unsung hero that facilitated many critical wartime successes.