Overview
The Bf 109 was one of the first modern monoplane fighters, with an all-metal body, enclosed cockpit and retractable undercarriage. It was the backbone of the German Luftwaffe throughout the Second World War, from Spain and the Battle of Britain to the defence of Germany.
About 34,000 were built, more than any other fighter. Specifications are for the Bf 109 G-6.
Specifications
Dimensions
| Length | 9.02 m |
|---|---|
| Wingspan | 9.92 m |
| Height | 2.60 m |
| Wing area | 16.1 m² |
Weights & fuel
| Empty weight | 2,247 kg |
|---|---|
| Max. take-off weight | 3,400 kg |
Performance
| Max. speed | 640 km/h |
|---|---|
| Range | 850 km |
| Service ceiling | 12,000 m |
| Rate of climb | 17.0 m/s |
Crew & capacity
| Crew | 1 |
|---|
Powerplant
| Engines | 1 |
|---|---|
| Engine model | Daimler-Benz DB 605A |
| Power (each) | 1,085 kW |
Figures are compiled from public sources and may be approximate; they can vary by variant and configuration.
Armament
- 20 mm MG 151/20 cannon firing through the propeller hub
- Two 13 mm MG 131 machine guns
- Optional bombs or underwing cannon
Did you know?
Erich Hartmann, the highest-scoring fighter pilot in history with 352 victories, flew the Bf 109.
Photos
Photo 1: Hebenstreit / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0 de
Some text and images come from Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons under CC BY-SA licences.
