The 20th century saw a huge number of aeroplanes take to the skies in the course of defending their countries or attacking aggressors. The last century was a time when aircraft made all the difference in war and the nations with the best aircraft triumphed. So, let’s take a look at some of history’s greatest aircraft – machines that should not be forgotten.

Transport – Beechcraft AT-11 Kansan
Not all planes were designed for fighting and there were other needs for military aircraft in the 20th century that were just as important in the grand scheme of things. Transport aircraft were essential to supply soldiers and goods to various destinations around the world. This plane was widely used in World War two and the Beechcraft AT-11 was modified somewhat so that it could defend itself against enemy aircraft. It was fitted with 30 cal. Machine guns and also had a small bomb bay, should it be required for bombardier use.

This aeroplane was used by the RAF and the Royal Canadian Air Force and the United States Air force also acquired and used a number of ‘Kansans’. Designer Walter Beech went back to manufacturing civilian models of the AT-11 and this plane remained in use until 1969.

Bomber – Avro Lancaster
The Avro Lancaster, more commonly known as the Lancaster Bomber, was the weapon of choice for difficult bombing attacks during the Second World War. It was this plane that dropped the bouncing bombs in the dam-buster raids and this plane that sank the Tirpitz battleship. This was the biggest bird in the skies during WWII and it had the power and capability needed to penetrate German anti-aircraft defences and was invaluable in destroying key targets.

The Lancaster was not used until 1942, when it took over from predecessor the Avro Manchester. This antecedent failed to do the job it had to do but the Lancaster was up to the task. It had 4 Merlin engines rather than two and a stable airframe, enabling more accurate bombing attacks than were possible with previous aircraft. Almost 7,500 Lancasters were built during this war and this shows how essential they were.

Fighter – Supermarine Spitfire
The Spitfire is probably the most famous combat aircraft the RAF have ever flown, and it was instrumental in the defeat of Hitler’s Third Reich, from above. The epic dogfights of World War Two were the perfect battleground, or sky, for Spitfires and these English-designed fighter planes and they proved their worth, downing German bombers and fighters alike.

The Spitfire was used up until the end of the 1950s and even today it is the reason that many people go to air shows around the world.

These aircraft have earned places in history and were vital in forming the history of the 20th century, which could have been very different without them.

Visit the following site for aviation and military clothing – www.rvops.co.uk.