Combat in the Stratosphere: Extreme Altitude Aircraft in Action During WW2 ============================================================= The Second World War saw the development and deployment of extreme altitude aircraft that pushed the boundaries of aviation technology to new heights. These planes, designed for combat in the stratosphere, were capable of reaching altitudes previously thought impossible for manned flight. The challenges faced by pilots and ground crews during these high-altitude missions were numerous, from freezing temperatures to thin air, and required a level of skill and bravery unmatched by any other conflict. In this article, we will explore the evolution of these aircraft, their capabilities, and the impact they had on the outcome of the war. Evolution of High-Altitude Aviation ------------------------------ The need for high-altitude aircraft arose as a response to the growing threat of strategic bombing. As bombers became more powerful and accurate, countries began to develop planes that could fly higher and faster, putting them out of reach of enemy fighters and anti-aircraft guns. This led to the development of pressurized cabins, specialized engines, and advanced oxygen systems. The first high-altitude aircraft were converted from existing bombers, such as the B-17 Flying Fortress and the Heinkel He 1111, but soon purpose-built planes like the Messerschmitt Me 262 and the P-51 Mustang were developed. These planes were capable of reaching altitudes above 40,000 feet, making them nearly invulnerable to interception.

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