The Biggest, Most Expensive Military Planes Ever Produced

3. The Hawker Hurricane

Joined the Service in 1935 1947 saw retirement Expense: *$2.1 million The Hawker Hurricane first took flight in 1935 and officially entered service two years later, in 1937. Powered by a Rolls Royce Merlin engine, this British aircraft was designed to be a reliable fighter. Although it did not achieve the same fame as the Supermarine Spitfire, the Hurricane played a critical role during World War II.

Hawker Hurricane via Wikipedia The Hurricane was responsible for 60% of the Luftwaffe's losses during the war. It saw action in all major WWII theaters and was designed by renowned aviation engineer Sir Sydney Camm. A total of 14,487 units were built for Canada and the RAF, and the aircraft was later adapted into the Hawker Henley.