The Fastest Military Jets in History

Farey Delta II

The British launched their first transonic jet in 1954 – moving faster than 1,000 mph for the first time in recorded history. However, this experimental aircraft was never meant to fight toe-to-toe with the big dog. It was designed purely to test the limits of what was available for transonic and supersonic flight. The Farey Delta II accomplished its mission, setting a world record for fastest flight. That record didn’t last long and only two of the Farey Delta IIs ever made it into the air. But they would hold a coveted place in British Aerospace history. The supersonic technology developed in creating the Delta IIs was later used to create the Concorde supersonic transport jet, which would push the envelope for moving passengers and cargo across the Atlantic.

• Top Speed: 1,300 mph
• Max Flight Distance: 830 miles with internal fuel