Hawker Tempest

Hawker Tempest

World War 2 planes

Sort of a "super" Typhoon, the Hawker Tempest had unbelievable technical qualities for a World War 2 airplane. Starting in 1944, it became what was probably the best British propeller fighter aircraft of the war. Thanks to its capacities, the Tempest was responsible for the loss of twenty German Me 262 (the first operational jet aircraft).

Among other missions, the Tempest was used on the continent by the Air Command to destroy trains, tanks, and artillery positions. It also was excellent at intercepting V-1 (the first missiles ever produced, designed by German engineers) over England, not only shooting them but also sending them to the ground by destabilizing the missile with the wingtip.

Type:

Fighter-bomber

Engine:

Napier Sabre II dev. 2 420 hp

Max speed:

686 km/h (425 mph) @ 5 182 m (18,500 ft.)

Ceiling:

11 125 m (36,500 ft.)

Range:

2 462 km (740 mi.)

Weight (empty):

4 082 kg (8,980 lb.)

Weight (loaded):

6 142 kg (13,512 lb.)

Wingspan:

12.50 m (41 ft.)

Length:

10.30 m (34 ft.)

Height:

4.9 m (16 ft.)

Armament:

Four Hispano 20 mm cannons, two 1000lb bombs or 8 rockets

The Hawker Tempest was one of the most famous British military planes during World War 2.

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