Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:26:57-2:28:44

The VL Pyörremyrsky arrives at the end of the piston-fighter era

Finland's existing Bf 109Gs and the end of the war remove the immediate need for a new piston fighter, even if the Pyörremyrsky might have found a few years of service.

Finnish Air ForceJet AgePiston Engine AircraftPrototype AircraftVl Pyorremyrsky
Watch at this timeFull video guide
Question

What are the prospects for the Finnish VL Pyörremyrsky prototype?

Short answer

It might have had a short service life, but existing Bf 109Gs and the coming jet age made production unattractive.

Notes

The VL Pyörremyrsky belongs to the mature final generation of piston fighters. One view gives a production version only a short service life, while another suggests that exports to South America could extend its usefulness. Finland already has relatively new Bf 109Gs, so an immediate replacement would offer limited value. The end of the war also removes the urgent demand for another fighter. By the time Finland needs replacements, its next choice is expected to move beyond another piston-engine design.