Table of Contents
What was the most powerful fighter in WW2?
The P-51D Mustang is considered by many to be the #1 fighter aircraft of WWII. With internal tanks, the plane had a range of 950 miles. The range increased to 2,200 miles with external tanks. This aircraft was both fast and maneuverable.
What engine was in the Spitfire?
Rolls-Royce Merlin
Rolls-Royce Griffon
Supermarine Spitfire/Engine types
Designed around a 1,000-horsepower, 12-cylinder, liquid-cooled Rolls-Royce PV-12 engine (later dubbed the Merlin), the Spitfire first flew in March 1935. It had superb performance and flight characteristics, and deliveries to operational Royal Air Force (RAF) squadrons commenced in the summer of 1938.
What types of aircraft engines were used in World War II?
Click to view all Aircraft Engines: World War II articles starting with the most recent. Alfa Romeo 1101 28-Cylinder Aircraft Engine – The Alfa Romeo 1101 was an Italian 28-cylinder aircraft engine that produced an excess of 2,000 hp (1,471 kW). Developmental issues and World War II prevented the 1101 from entering production.
How did aircraft speed increase during World War II?
It is noteworthy that with very few exceptions, almost all improvements in aircraft speed and load-carrying capability during World War II came from increased engine power and not from aerodynamic, structure, or system improvements in airframes. In turn, engine power increases came mainly from improvements in fuel and superchargers.
How much horsepower does a fighter engine have?
For many fighters and bombers, engines of at least 1,000 horsepower were specified in the procurements of the mid-1930s. By 1938 and 1939, 2,000 hp engines were specified for fighters and bombers.
How many horsepower was a WW2 bomber engine?
By 1938 and 1939, 2,000 hp engines were specified for fighters and bombers. Engine design had to become more sophisticated as greater power was sought at higher engine rotating speeds.