The Stealthiest Plane of World War II

During World War II, aviation innovation was driven by the need for an edge in the skies. Among the most remarkable designs was the Horten Ho 229, a prototype jet-powered flying wing developed by Germany. Conceived by the Horten brothers, Walter and Reimar, this aircraft aimed to combine speed, firepower, and stealth—an extraordinary leap forward in aviation technology.

The Ho 229’s defining feature was its flying wing design, which eliminated a conventional fuselage and tail. This sleek, bat-like shape reduced its radar cross-section, making it harder for early radar systems to detect. Though radar technology was still in its infancy during the war, the Horten brothers anticipated its growing importance, giving the Ho 229 a futuristic advantage.

Powered by two BMW 003 jet engines, the Ho 229 was capable of reaching speeds up to 600 mph—faster than most Allied propeller-driven planes. It was designed to carry a payload of 1,000 kilograms of bombs and mounted 30mm MK 108 cannons, making it a formidable potential threat to Allied forces.

Despite its groundbreaking design, the Horten Ho 229 never entered mass production. Only a few prototypes were built, and the aircraft never saw combat. When the war ended, the Allies captured a partially completed Ho 229, which was shipped to the United States for study under Operation Paperclip. Its influence can still be seen in modern stealth aircraft like the B-2 Spirit.