5 RAF Aircraft That Shot Down The Most Aircraft In WW2

During World War II, the Royal Air Force (RAF) relied on a range of aircraft to protect the skies and achieve air superiority. Some of these planes became legendary, not just for their design and capabilities, but for the sheer number of enemy aircraft they managed to bring down. We explore five of the most successful RAF aircraft in terms of confirmed victories during the war, highlighting their roles, strengths, and the pilots who flew them into battle.

Disclaimer: These estimates are based on the victory records of aces and near aces, cross-referenced with squadron numbers. It’s important to note that these figures reflect confirmed victory claims, not verified enemy losses.

5. Curtiss P-40 Tomahawk/Kittyhawk (1938) – 680 Victories

The Curtiss P-40, known as the Tomahawk in its earlier versions and the Kittyhawk in later ones, was the best early-war American fighter used by the RAF. It proved to be a crucial asset in the North African campaign, where its rugged design and low-level performance were particularly effective. The P-40 replaced the Hurricane in many squadrons, becoming the RAF’s primary fighter-bomber in the harsh desert environment.

In North Africa, the P-40 excelled as both a fighter and a ground-attack aircraft. It was flown by some of the most skilled RAF pilots, including Clive Caldwell, Australia’s top ace, who scored 20.5 of his 28.5 victories in the P-40. The aircraft’s robust design allowed it to withstand the tough conditions of the desert, and its heavy armament made it a formidable opponent in dogfights. Despite being outclassed by later aircraft, the P-40 remained a reliable workhorse for the RAF throughout the early years of the war.

4. de Havilland Mosquito (1940) – 835 Victories

The de Havilland Mosquito, often called “the Wooden Wonder” due to its wooden construction, was one of the most versatile aircraft of WWII. It served in various roles, including as a night fighter, bomber, and reconnaissance plane. Its speed, agility, and heavy firepower made it particularly effective as a night fighter, where it claimed the majority of its victories.

The Mosquito’s success as a night fighter was largely due to its low drag, light airframe, and high power-to-weight ratio. It was equipped with radar, allowing it to intercept enemy bombers under cover of darkness. Pilots like Branse Burbridge, who achieved 21 kills in the Mosquito, became legends for their skill in night combat. The aircraft’s design also allowed it to carry a significant payload, making it a capable bomber on daytime missions as well. By the end of the war, the Mosquito had earned a reputation as one of the RAF’s most successful and innovative aircraft.

3. Bristol Beaufighter (1939) – 965 Victories

The Bristol Beaufighter was a heavy fighter and one of the most heavily armed aircraft of its time. With four 20-mm cannons and six .303 machine guns, it was designed to cause maximum damage in combat. The Beaufighter’s versatility allowed it to excel in various roles, including night fighting, long-range coastal patrols, and ground attack missions.

During its service, the Beaufighter earned a fearsome reputation, particularly in the Mediterranean and the Pacific. It was a key player in Coastal Command, where it hunted German submarines and ships over the Bay of Biscay and the Atlantic. In the Pacific, the Royal Australian Air Force used the Beaufighter to great effect against Japanese forces. Notably, the Beaufighter played a significant role in the Mediterranean, where it intercepted air transports and bombers, contributing to some of the RAF’s most decisive victories in the region.

2. Hawker Hurricane (1935) – 4,540 Victories (RAF Only)

The Hawker Hurricane was the RAF’s workhorse during the early years of WWII, and it played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain. While often overshadowed by the more famous Spitfire, the Hurricane was responsible for more enemy kills during the battle. Its rugged design and ease of production made it an essential part of the RAF’s fighter force.

The Hurricane was not only effective in the skies over Britain but also in other theaters, including North Africa, Greece, and the Far East. It was flown by many of the RAF’s top aces, including South African pilot Marmaduke “Pat” Pattle, who achieved 37 of his 51 victories in a Hurricane. The aircraft’s ability to absorb damage and keep flying made it a favorite among pilots, and it continued to serve in various roles throughout the war, including as a ground-attack aircraft.

1. Supermarine Spitfire (1936) – 5,950 Victories (RAF Only)

The Supermarine Spitfire is perhaps the most iconic aircraft of WWII, known for its sleek design and exceptional performance. It was the backbone of the RAF’s fighter force, serving from the early days of the war until the very end. The Spitfire’s versatility and constant upgrades allowed it to remain competitive against the latest German aircraft.

The Spitfire was involved in nearly every major campaign where the RAF fought, including the Battle of Britain, the defense of Malta, and the Normandy invasion. It was flown by many of the war’s top aces, such as J.E. “Johnny” Johnson, who scored 36.91 victories, making him the highest-scoring RAF pilot of the war. The Spitfire’s speed, maneuverability, and firepower made it a formidable opponent, and it became a symbol of British resilience during the war.