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 was first flown in 1935 and debuted at Christmas 1937, two years later. The Hurricane was a British aircraft designed by General Motors' rival Rolls Royce using a Merlin engine. Although it did not receive the same level of public coverage as the Supermarine Spitfire, the aircraft was a formidable force in World War II.

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Hawker Hurricane via Wikipedia 60% of the Luftwaffe's losses during World War II were caused by Hawker Hurricane aircraft. Hurricane participated in combat in all of the main WWII theatres. The fighter jet was created by the renowned aviation designer Sir Sydney Camm. 14,487 were constructed for Canada and the RAF. Later on, it was transformed into the Hawker Henley.

4. The F-16 Fighting Falcon

Joined the Service in 1974 Not retired: N/A Expense: *$18.8 million Although the US Air Force was the intended user of the F-16 Fighting Falcon, it is currently in service by 25 other nations. Originally designed as a day fighter with air superiority, this fighter jet has developed into a successful multirole aircraft capable of flying in all weather conditions throughout time. From the time General Dynamics won the contract in 1976, 4,604 of them have been constructed.

F-16D Fighting Falcon | Twitter.com / @Toryu1963 The Falcon is now exported rather than purchased by the USAF. The side-mounted control stick and bubble canopy are two of the Falcon's most notable features. Along with improved visibility made possible by the frameless canopy, the side stick facilitates smoother manoeuvring.