How The US Developed Its Military Aircraft Insignia

While most people can easily identify the differences between a military aircraft and a commercial jetliner, there is a differentiation that is not commonly talked about. Whether placed on the fuselage or wings, military aircraft wear insignia to identify the nation or branch of military service the aircraft belongs. The origins of these emblems date back to the early 1900s and proudly showcase red, white, and blue – the colors of the American flag. Over the years, the designs, often roundels, have changed due to various circumstances, including technological enhancements, aircraft paint, and wartime crises.