America’s 5 Best Experimental Super Planes of World War 2
YouTube / Found And Explained
1. P-82 Twin Mustang
This aircraft was designed to solve the P-51 Mustang’s fuel range problem by joining two fuselages together. The Twin Mustang had a longer range, more fuel capacity, and an increased payload. It set the record for the longest non-stop flight by a propeller-driven fighter and served during the Korean War before being replaced by jet fighters.
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2. Lockheed L-133 Starjet
The L-133 was an advanced jet fighter concept with a blended wing-body and canard design. It could reach speeds of up to 612 mph and had a fully retractable tricycle landing gear. However, due to resource constraints and its futuristic design, the U.S. Air Corps rejected it in 1942.
3. Bell P-59 Airacomet
As America’s first jet fighter, the P-59 provided crucial data and training for future jet aircraft development. Powered by two General Electric turbojets, its conventional airframe and low thrust resulted in poor performance, preventing it from seeing combat. Around 50 were built, and they were used mainly for training.
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4. Vought V-173 “Flying Pancake”
The V-173 featured a circular wing, making it look like a “Flying Pancake.” Its unique design allowed it to take off and land at extremely low speeds, ideal for aircraft carrier operations. Despite promising test flights, it never entered full production, though it led to the development of the XF5U-1.
5. Northrop XB-35 Flying Wing
The XB-35 was a radical, tailless bomber designed for maximum aerodynamic efficiency. It had no fuselage, relying on its flying wing design to house its crew, payload, and armament. Despite impressive capabilities, gearbox problems and a transition to jet propulsion led to its cancellation. However, its concept later influenced the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber.
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Which of these do you think had the most potential if fully developed?
