#WWII

The Supermarine Spitfire was first flown by Belgian pilots at the beginning of World War II. The pilots and pilot candidates came from various parts of the world: Europe, North and South America, Africa, and even China. A number of them were from Belgium, having spent time in French, Portuguese, or Spanish prisoner-of-war camps. Most of them joined the Royal Air Force and were assigned to various Bomber and Fighter Squadrons. On February 11, 1941, a Belgian flight was formed within the 609 Squadron. After just a year, their numbers had grown so large that it was decided to establish a full Squadron on February 11, 1942: the 350 Squadron, with the code MN. In November of the same year, a second Squadron was formed: the 349 Squadron, with the code GE. They were equipped with Spitfire Mk II A aircraft from the Royal Air Force.

The Kawasaki Ki-45, a Japanese aircraft active during World War II, experienced an unusually long and challenging development phase before its eventual deployment. Despite its struggles, it played a crucial role during the war’s final months as Japan’s only operational night fighter, tasked with defending against American B-29 night bombings—though it had not been originally designed for this purpose.

The Kyushu J7W1 Shinden (meaning "Magnificent Lightning") was the only canard-configured aircraft ordered for mass production during World War II, and it was one of the most unique aircraft designs to come out of Japan. The concept for this distinctive configuration originated with Captain Masaoki Tsuruno of the Japanese Navy's Technical Staff. Captain Tsuruno envisioned replacing the rear-mounted radial engine driving a six-blade propeller with a turbojet engine.

This article will explore the development and service history of the Sd.Kfz. 234 heavy armoured car family, which includes the Sd.Kfz. 234/1, 234/2, 234/3, and 234/4. The Sd.Kfz. 234 series were the last to be produced by Germany during the Second World War, and were relatively uncommon. Despite this, they remain some of the most well-known armoured cars of their time.