Messerschmitt bf 110

Specifications Messerschmitt bf 110 blueprint

The Messerschmitt BF 110 was a German twin-engine heavy fighter and fighter-bomber that saw service during World War II with the German Luftwaffe. This aircraft was introduced in 1939 as one of the first true multi-purpose aircraft of the war, and it would go on to be produced in the thousands until the end of the war. It is best known for its performance as a dreadful night fighter, but it also saw service as a fighter-bomber and reconnaissance aircraft. The BF 110's most distinguishing characteristics are its long, narrow fuselage, two-engine mountings, and its characteristic twin tail. The plane had an all-metal airframe, built with an internal bomb bay for an additional load capacity. It typically was powered by two Daimler-Benz DB 601A and later versions had two Bramo 323 radials with a capacity of 1,750 horsepower each. They were designed with a wide wingspan of over 65 feet with a low wing aspect ratio, and had a maximum speed of around 324 mph, making it one of the faster fighters of its time. The BF 110 came equipped with two engines, two 13 mm MG 131 machine guns, four 20mm MG FF cannons, and two 210 mm Wgr.21 air-to-ground rockets. In addition, it had an additional range of many more weapons. The BF 110 could accommodate up to two crew members, a pilot and rear gunner/observer. The BF 110 saw extensive use in missions during all stages of World War II, mostly providing escort duties and reconnaissance. It was extremely rugged, being able to take a lot of damage and still return to base. Its long operational life earned it the nickname of the "zauberschiff" for its continuing ability to survive combat. Due to its excellent performance and ability to survive, the BF 110 remains one of the most iconic aircraft of the Second World War.