5 Notorious Ww2 German Bomber Planes

The world was forever changed by the events of World War II, and one of the most significant factors in the war's outcome was the development and deployment of military aircraft. Germany, in particular, produced some of the most iconic and feared bomber planes of the war. These aircraft played a crucial role in the German war effort, striking fear into the hearts of enemy troops and civilians alike. Here, we'll take a closer look at five of the most notorious WW2 German bomber planes.

The Focke-Wulf Fw 200 Condor

The Focke-Wulf Fw 200 Condor was a maritime patrol bomber used by the German Luftwaffe during WW2. It was designed to patrol the Atlantic and hunt Allied convoys, and its long range and payload capacity made it an effective tool for this task. The Fw 200 was also used for reconnaissance and bombing missions, earning a reputation as a formidable opponent.

Key Features and Specifications

• Crew: 5-6
• Length: 23.45 m (76 ft 11 in)
• Wingspan: 29.17 m (95 ft 8 in)
• Height: 6.30 m (20 ft 8 in)
• Empty weight: 12,960 kg (28,600 lb)
• Max takeoff weight: 22,700 kg (50,000 lb)
• Powerplant: 4 x BMW 801A radial engines
• Maximum speed: 360 km/h (224 mph)
• Range: 3,600 km (2,236 miles)
• Service ceiling: 6,300 m (20,669 ft)

The Heinkel He 111

The Heinkel He 111 was a medium bomber used by the German Luftwaffe during WW2. It was one of the most widely used German bombers of the war and saw action in many theaters, including the Battle of Britain and the Eastern Front. The He 111 was known for its durability and versatility, making it a favorite among German pilots.

Key Features and Specifications

• Crew: 5
• Length: 16.38 m (53 ft 9 in)
• Wingspan: 22.60 m (74 ft 2 in)
• Height: 3.75 m (12 ft 4 in)
• Empty weight: 7,720 kg (17,018 lb)
• Max takeoff weight: 12,030 kg (26,523 lb)
• Powerplant: 2 x Daimler-Benz DB 601A engines
• Maximum speed: 440 km/h (273 mph)
• Range: 2,000 km (1,243 miles)
• Service ceiling: 6,700 m (22,000 ft)

The Junkers Ju 87 Stuka

The Junkers Ju 87 Stuka was a dive bomber used by the German Luftwaffe during WW2. It was known for its distinctive wailing siren, which struck fear into the hearts of enemy troops. The Stuka was designed to provide close air support to ground troops and was highly effective in this role.

Key Features and Specifications

• Crew: 2
• Length: 11.00 m (36 ft 1 in)
• Wingspan: 13.80 m (45 ft 3 in)
• Height: 4.01 m (13 ft 2 in)
• Empty weight: 2,750 kg (6,063 lb)
• Max takeoff weight: 4,500 kg (9,920 lb)
• Powerplant: 1 x Junkers Jumo 211Da engine
• Maximum speed: 360 km/h (224 mph)
• Range: 790 km (491 miles)
• Service ceiling: 7,000 m (23,000 ft)

The Dornier Do 17

The Dornier Do 17 was a light bomber used by the German Luftwaffe during WW2. It was known for its sleek design and high speed, earning it the nickname "Flying Pencil." The Do 17 was used for reconnaissance and bombing missions, but its lack of defensive armament made it vulnerable to enemy fighters.

Key Features and Specifications

• Crew: 4
• Length: 15.80 m (51 ft 10 in)
• Wingspan: 18.00 m (59 ft 1 in)
• Height: 4.55 m (14 ft 11 in)
• Empty weight: 5,210 kg (11,500 lb)
• Max takeoff weight: 8,620 kg (18,990 lb)
• Powerplant: 2 x Bramo 323P engines
• Maximum speed: 420 km/h (261 mph)
• Range: 1,100 km (683 miles)
• Service ceiling: 6,800 m (22,310 ft)

The Messerschmitt Me 264

The Messerschmitt Me 264 was a long-range bomber used by the German Luftwaffe during WW2. It was designed to strike targets deep within enemy territory, but its development was plagued by delays and technical issues. Despite this, the Me 264 remains one of the most interesting and ambitious bomber designs of the war.

Key Features and Specifications

• Crew: 3
• Length: 21.00 m (68 ft 11 in)
• Wingspan: 30.25 m (99 ft 3 in)
• Height: 4.28 m (14 ft 1 in)
• Empty weight: 14,400 kg (31,753 lb)
• Max takeoff weight: 22,000 kg (48,502 lb)
• Powerplant: 4 x Daimler-Benz DB 603A engines
• Maximum speed: 560 km/h (348 mph)
• Range: 9,700 km (6,027 miles)
• Service ceiling: 11,000 m (36,089 ft)

WW2 German Bomber Planes Image Gallery

We hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of the most notorious WW2 German bomber planes. Each of these aircraft played a significant role in the war effort, striking fear into the hearts of enemy troops and civilians alike. From the Focke-Wulf Fw 200 Condor to the Messerschmitt Me 264, these planes remain an important part of history and a testament to the ingenuity and innovation of the German aircraft industry during WW2.

As we reflect on the significance of these bomber planes, we invite you to share your thoughts and comments below. What do you think about the role of German bomber planes in WW2? Which of these aircraft do you find the most interesting or impressive? Let's continue the conversation and explore the fascinating world of military aviation together.