Entering A New Age: Germany’s Stormbird – The Me 262


INTRODUCTION The Messerschmitt Me 262 'Schwalbe' ("Swallow") is undoubtedly one of the most important examples of Germany's technological advancement in both aerodynamics and jet engines during the Second World War. But the entry into operational service of the first jet fighter in history was delayed by a tumultuous and difficult development, mostly due to engine troubles …

The Great WW2 Aircraft Carrier Showdown : Imperial Japanese Navy v/s US Navy


INTRODUCTION The Pacific War [7 December 1941 – 2 September 1945] between the Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) and the United States Navy (USN) is mainly remembered for its aircraft carrier actions. In fact, the aircraft carrier balance was to decide the fate of the conflict. During the first six months of the Pacific War, the …

Greatest World War II Weapons : The Fearsome Katyusha Rocket Launcher


INTRODUCTION The word Katyusha brings to mind, images of the deadly rocket launcher used by the Soviets in World War II. These rocket launchers were used extensively throughout the war and were known for the powerful punch they packed. Technically designated as Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS), these were available at a fraction of the …

The World’s first guided missiles : V1 and V2


INTRODUCTION World War 2 was all about fighting with guns, bombs and unguided rockets. Weapons that could reach over long distances were nonexistent.  Hitler, enraged by the British bombing of Germany ordered the Vengeance weapons to be developed for use against his enemies. This gave birth to the V1 flying bomb and the V2 ballistic …

Greatest World War II Weapons : Human Torpedo


A torpedo is an underwater missile that is used to attack ships and submarines. But what is this human torpedo? How can an underwater missile be manned? Well, the credit goes to those who came up with this idea of putting a man in a torpedo. Their intention was not to create a suicide vessel …