LESSON 1.2 — CLASSIFICATION OF AIRPLANES
[ 1.2.3] Military Aircraft
BEFORE WE FLY — QUICK QUESTION
Which was the first military aircraft?
The Wright Model A (1909): 64 km/h, two aboard, up to 200 km — it convinced militaries of aviation's value.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The Wright Model A, shown in 1909 — just six years after the first powered flight — flew at 64 km/h with two people aboard, covering up to 200 km, convincing military authorities of aviation's value for reconnaissance.
- Second World War aircraft replaced wooden biplane frames with aluminium structures — lighter, stronger and faster, alongside far more powerful engines.
- The Northrop Grumman B-2 Spirit's flying-wing design gives it a minimal radar signature — penetrating heavily defended airspace while carrying conventional and nuclear weapons.