Messerschmitt Me-262 Schwalbe
The "Swallow" of Nazi Germany was the world's first operational jet-powered fighter aircraft. It was used in a variety of roles, including light bomber, reconnaissance, and even experimental night fighter versions.
The "Swallow" of Nazi Germany was the world's first operational jet-powered fighter aircraft. It was used in a variety of roles, including light bomber, reconnaissance, and even experimental night fighter versions.
Historical information
The Messerschmitt Me 262 Schwalbe (English: "Swallow") of Nazi Germany was the world's first operational jet-powered fighter aircraft.
Design work started before World War II began, but engine problems and top-level interference kept the aircraft from operational status with the Luftwaffe until mid-1944. Heavily armed, it was faster than any Allied fighter, including the British jet-powered Gloster Meteor.
One of the most advanced aviation designs in operational use during World War II, the Me 262 was used in a variety of roles, including light bomber, reconnaissance, and even experimental night fighter versions.