The era of military propeller aircraft, particularly during the World Wars, saw numerous designs that excelled in various roles. Here are some of the most successful military propeller aircraft, recognized for their impact, production numbers, versatility, and combat effectiveness:

1. Supermarine Spitfire (UK): Renowned for its role during the Battle of Britain, the Spitfire was a key interceptor with various models serving throughout WWII.
2. North American P-51 Mustang (USA): Initially designed for the British, the Mustang became one of the best all-around fighters of WWII, especially when fitted with the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine.
3. Messerschmitt Bf 109 (Germany): One of the most produced fighter aircraft in history, it served as the backbone of the German Luftwaffe’s fighter force.
4. Focke-Wulf Fw 190 (Germany): An exceptional and versatile fighter, it excelled in multiple roles, from intercepting bombers to ground attack.
5. Mitsubishi A6M Zero (Japan): At the onset of WWII, the Zero was considered one of the most capable carrier-based fighters, known for its agility and long range.
6. Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress (USA): A heavy bomber that played a crucial role in the daylight strategic bombing campaign against Germany.
7. Consolidated B-24 Liberator (USA): Produced in greater numbers than any other U.S. bomber, the B-24 was used in multiple theaters for various roles, including anti-submarine warfare.
8. Avro Lancaster (UK): The RAF’s primary heavy bomber, it was a key instrument in the nighttime bombing raids over Germany.
9. Ilyushin Il-2 Sturmovik (Soviet Union): Known as the “Flying Tank,” this ground attack aircraft was crucial in the Eastern Front, supporting the Red Army against German forces.
10. Douglas C-47 Skytrain/Dakota (USA): A military adaptation of the civilian DC-3, it played numerous roles from cargo transport to paratrooper drops.
11. Republic P-47 Thunderbolt (USA): A robust and heavily armed fighter, the P-47 was effective both as an escort fighter and in the ground attack role.
12. Grumman F6F Hellcat (USA): A dominant carrier-based fighter, it achieved a high kill ratio in the Pacific theater, playing a significant role in neutralizing Japanese air power.
13. TBF Avenger (USA): A torpedo bomber that had a significant impact in naval battles such as the Battle of Midway.
14. De Havilland Mosquito (UK): A wooden-framed aircraft, known for its speed and versatility, serving roles from bomber to reconnaissance.

These aircraft, among others from the propeller era, stood out for their performance, impact on the course of battles and wars, and the strategic and tactical advantages they provided to their operators.