Victory at Sea: Kriegsmarine Aircraft

With carriers planned but not built, Germany’s airpower was limited to launching from airfields far from open water. As such, they were mainly deployed against ships close to mainland Europe. Despite this, the Luftwaffe dive-bombers proved devastatingly effective against Allied ships.

Focke-Wulf FW 200 Condor: The Focke-Wulf Fw 200 Condor began its operational life as an airliner and was the first aircraft to fly non-stop between Berlin and New York. Though used in a variety of roles, the version presented here is a maritime patrol aircraft that saw use as a long-range and anti-shipping bomber. These planes searched for Allied convoys and could perform anti-submarine warfare duties.

Junkers Ju 88: The Ju 88 was one of the most effective and versatile strike aircraft of the war. It served as a medium bomber and tank buster on land, and at sea could deliver bombs or torpedoes. The Ju 88’s high speed allowed it to avoid interception much of the time or outrun fighters if necessary, making it much more survivable than most contemporary Allied designs.

Messerschmitt Bf109: Made famous in the Battle of Britain, the Bf 109 was constantly upgraded throughout the war to remain competitive, though it was to be outclassed by the newer Fw 190. At the start of the war, however, it was a fearsome fighter, and a suitable counterpart to the Spitfire.