The Top 10 Fastest WWII Aircraft That Actually Flew
YouTube / Ed Nash's Military Matters
World War II wasn’t just a battle of nations—it was a race of technology, innovation, and speed. While many aircraft were built for durability, firepower, or range, some pushed the boundaries of what was aerodynamically possible. Here are the top 10 fastest aircraft of WWII, including experimental designs that blurred the line between science fiction and reality.
1. Messerschmitt Me 163 Komet – 702 mph (1,130 km/h)
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The Me 163 Komet was the only operational rocket-powered fighter in history. Introduced by Germany in 1944, it achieved speeds up to 702 mph, making it the fastest aircraft of WWII. However, its short flight duration and challenging handling limited its combat effectiveness
2. Gloster Meteor – 603 mph (970 km/h)
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The Gloster Meteor was the Allies’ first operational jet fighter. Powered by twin Rolls-Royce Derwent turbojets, it reached speeds of 603 mph. Entering service in 1944, it played a crucial role in countering German V-1 flying bombs.
3. Lockheed P-80 Shooting Star – 594 mph (956 km/h)
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The P-80 Shooting Star was America’s first operational jet fighter. With a top speed of 594 mph, it marked the U.S. entry into the jet age. Although it saw limited action during WWII, it laid the groundwork for future jet aircraft.
4. Messerschmitt Me 262 – 559 mph (900 km/h)
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The Me 262 was the world’s first operational jet-powered fighter. Introduced by Germany in 1944, it achieved speeds of 559 mph. Its advanced design and speed gave it a significant edge over Allied aircraft.
5. Heinkel He 162 – 491 mph (790 km/h)
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The He 162, also known as the “Volksjäger,” was a German jet fighter developed late in the war. Despite its rapid development and use of non-strategic materials, it reached speeds of 491 mph. Its rushed production led to various operational issues.
6. de Havilland DH.103 Hornet – 475 mph (764 km/h)
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The DH.103 Hornet was a British twin-engine fighter derived from the Mosquito. With a top speed of 475 mph, it was one of the fastest piston-engine aircraft of its time. Although it entered service too late to see combat in WWII, it showcased exceptional performance.
7. Dornier Do 335 Pfeil – 474 mph (763 km/h)
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The Do 335 was a unique German heavy fighter featuring a push-pull engine configuration. This design allowed it to reach speeds of 474 mph, making it the fastest piston-engine aircraft of the war. Its limited production meant it saw minimal combat.
8. Arado Ar 234 Blitz – 461 mph (742 km/h)
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The Ar 234 Blitz was the world’s first operational jet-powered bomber. Introduced by Germany in 1944, it achieved speeds of 461 mph. Its speed and altitude capabilities made it difficult for Allied fighters to intercept.
9. Grumman F8F Bearcat – 454 mph (730 km/h)
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The F8F Bearcat was an American carrier-based fighter designed for speed and agility. With a top speed of 454 mph, it was one of the fastest piston-engine fighters. However, it arrived too late to see significant action in WWII.
10. North American P-51 Mustang – 440 mph (708 km/h)
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The P-51 Mustang was a long-range American fighter renowned for its performance and versatility. With a top speed of 440 mph, it played a pivotal role in gaining air superiority over Europe. Its range allowed it to escort bombers deep into enemy territory
