Air forces across the globe have aimed to develop certain innovations throughout history in a bid to have that elusive tactical edge in the skies, a history littered with groundbreaking aircraft. Not every program took off into fame, though, nor did every aircraft get to leave the drawing board. Herein are five of the most peculiar military aircraft you might not believe existed.
North American F-82 Twin Mustang Most would easily confuse the North American F-82 Twin Mustang with the famous P-38 Lightning, looking at its similar twin fuselages. Conceived from the design of the P-51 Mustang as World War II was drawing to a close, this was a piston-engined fighter designed to serve as a long-range escort for Boeing B-29 Superfortress bombers. Missing World War II, it still carved its niche during the Korean War by becoming one of the very first U.S. aircraft to engage and shoot down North Korean planes.
Short SC.7 Skyvan Dubbed the “Flying Shoebox” with its box-like appearance, the Short SC.7 Skyvan saw diverse uses that included everything from short-haul freighting to skydiving duties. While not the most aesthetically pleasing aircraft, the Skyvan still flies in Guyana and Oman military service. Produced by Short Brothers of Belfast, Northern Ireland, between 1963 and 1986, the Skyvan is little seen these days, with just 149 having been built.
Dornier Do 28 Designed for a modest load of thirteen passengers following the initial funding by the German government for this twin-turboprop transport, it developed into a versatile aircraft that saw numerous military and civilian operators in Europe and Africa. Although most units from the 1960s and 70s have long since been retired, many continue serving with distinction in the Nigerian Air Force and the Zambian Air Force.
Convair F2Y Sea Dart, The Convair F2Y Sea Dart was the sole jet-fighting seaplane; that is to say, it utilized hydro-skis for lift-off and landing. Never fully produced, five were manufactured for the United States Navy. It holds a niche distinction for being the only seaplane to fly supersonic.
Britten-Norman Defender The Britten-Norman Islander civil transport translated into a multirole utility aircraft with the Royal Air Force; itself having seen active service since several conflicts, most notably the second Iraq War, apart from service with the police in their daily activities, including surveillance during the 2012 London Summer Olympics. Service for this aircraft does not remain limited to the UK only but reaches out to other countries too, the Philippine Navy and the Royal Cambodian Air Force.
These planes, many of them with their quirks and particularities, epitomize ingenuity and various needs found within military aviation. While many may not be so well known, they have helped progress aerial combat and set it to be an integral part of warfare, earning a place in the annals of flying history.