Called the Komet, this was a rocket-powered defensive fighter. Fortunately, only a few were produced and those were beset with significant operational issues. Although the rocket gave it an exceptional climb rate, the fuels used were extremely hazardous and often exploded without warning, killing several pilots

One of the most remarkable of the Wunderwaffen (wonder weapons) produced by the Nazi Germany during World War II, the Messerschmitt Me 163 Komet holds the distinction of being the first and only tailless rocket-powered interceptor to see operational service. Like the other advanced weapons fielded by Germany during the final year of World War II, the Me 163 had little actual effect on the outcome of the war. Considering the conditions under which it was developed and deployed, however, the Me 163 can be rightly considered a significant technological accomplishment.