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German Two-Seaters
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 In late 1916, the demand for a durable observation aircraft capable of performing ground attack missions led to the introduction of the Junkers J.I. Developed in early 1917, it was the world's first all-metal aircraft produced in quantity. Eliminating the need for external bracing wires, the fuselage, wings and tail were constructed of Duralumin while the engine and two-man crew were protected by a nose-capsule of 5-mm chrome-nickel sheet-steel. Although this unique design resulted in a strong and durable aircraft capable of surviving the effects of enemy ground fire, the Junkers J.I was heavy, cumbersome and took forever to get off the ground. |
Junkers J.I Entered Service: August 1917 Number Built: 227 Engine(s): Benz BZ.IV, inline engine, 200 hp 147 kW Daimler-Mercedes D.IVa 191 kW (1918) Wing Span: 52 ft 6 in 16 m Length: 29 ft 10¼ in 9.1 m Height: 11 ft 1 7/8 in 3.4 m Empty Weight: 3,893 lb 1,766 kg Gross Weight: 4,718 lb 2,140 kg Max Speed: 96 mph 155 km/h Crew: 2 Armament: 2 machine guns |
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Hannover CL.III German Hannover CL.III- A late war two seater reconnaisence aircraft, The colors are suspect. |
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Rumpler C.IV-VII The Rumpler C.IV-VII were virtually indistinguishable from the outside. This aircraft flew with the unit Flieger-Abteilung(A ) 253 during the late summer of 1918. Leutnant der Reserve Hanns-Gerd Rabe flew numerous long range patrols. The aircraft's high ceiling kept it relatively safe from pursuing Allied fighters. |
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Halberstadt CL.II The Halberstadt CL.II was the first purpose designed aircraft for the ground attack role. This one represents the black-tailed aircraft of Schlachtstaffel 2 commander Oblt. Oscar Bechtle. |
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Halberstadt CL.IV This aircraft is the improved version of the Halberstadt CL.II, the CL.IV which was very successful in harassing Allied troops from the Spring of 1918 until the end of the war. This represents a license built aircraft by Roland. |
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The German aircraft industry excelled in producing efficient aircraft for high altitude reconnaissance duties and pioneered the use of aircraft specifically designed for the ground attack role.
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Original material copyright © 7/8/99 W. Ira Boucher. All Rights Reserved. |
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