The method and results of the study of the mechanical properties of some materials during high-speed deformation are presented. The methodology used is based on the indirect determination of material tensile curves under conditions of constant deformation rate of test specimens. Deformations are measured on a dynamometer rod and then converted into stresses in the specimens. The research is conducted on dog-bone-shaped specimens whose geometric dimensions are significantly smaller than those of samples used for static testing. A pneumatic gun is used to ensure the required strain rates, and the strains are measured using broadband strain gauges. Experimental determination of the strength limits of a number of materials used in aircraft construction has been carried out under tension at different strain rates. The dynamic mechanical properties of aluminum alloy and carbon fiber reinforced plastic have been investigated. The results for high strain rate are compared with data obtained using the classical quasi-static approach. The problems arising in the investigation of the dynamic behavior of isotropic and anisotropic materials are discussed, as well as some features of carbon fiber composite failure under impact loading. It has been shown that the strength limit of the materials under study increases with increasing deformation rate. This proves that the study of the dynamic properties of materials should become an essential component of strength assessment for structures operating under rapidly changing loads.