The need to defend Britain would probably give land-based fighters priority over naval jets. A first operational generation around 1936 might resemble the relatively simple Gloster Meteor, with successors by 1939-40 drawing on that experience. A Vampire-like design is one possibility, and second-generation aircraft might incorporate radar for night operations. Germany's ability to field opposing jets would depend on how efficiently its program developed and how much political interference it attracted. Visible British success could encourage greater intervention by senior leaders who had previously doubted the technology's value, leaving the German timetable uncertain.
Chapter · 1:21:55-1:24:21
An early second generation of jet fighters could defend Britain
Land-based fighters could receive jet engines first, with a second generation by 1939-40 potentially adding radar and better night capability.