Fighters
Small, fast and deadly, the fighter in World War II made its way from canvas biplane to inline aluminium hell raiser and then rocket and jet aircraft during just a few years.
The fighter served as a quick-response weapon, able to intercept actions at a moment's notice, and as a powerful support weapon for vulnerable ground troops, bombers and ships. The fighter also represented one of the few scenarios where one man was pitted against another in singular combat with complete freedom of movement.
These knights of the sky were often envied by the ground forces who knew that once the action had closed the pilots went back home for breakfast. But their role was often decisive. Fighters gave air superiority, opening the way for advancing troops.
