Junkers Ju 88

Junkers Ju 88 A4

Junkers Ju 88-A4
Specifications
Type	Medium Bomber Dive Bomber
Armament	3x 7.92 MG81 1x 7.92 MG81Z #Loadout1 4x 250 kg SC250 #Loadout2 4x 250 kg SC250 & 10x 50 kg SC50 #Loadout3 28x 50 kg SC50
Crew	4 (pilot, bombardier/front gunner, rear gunner, ventral gunner)
Weight	13,690kg
Top Speed	455km/h

History

In October 1937 Generalluftzeugmeister Ernst Udet had ordered the development of the Ju 88 as a heavy dive bomber. This decision was influenced by the success of the Ju 87 Stuka in this role. The Junkers development at Dessau gave priority to the study of pull-out systems and dive brakes. The first prototype to be tested as a dive bomber was the Ju 88 V4 followed by the V5 and V6. These models became the planned prototype for the A-1 series. The V5 made its maiden flight on 13 April 1938, and the V6 on 28 June 1938. Both the V5 and V6 were fitted with four-blade propellers, an extra bomb bay and a central "control system".
As a dive bomber, the Ju 88 was capable of pinpoint deliveries of heavy loads; however, despite all the modifications, dive bombing still proved too stressful for the airframe, and in 1943, tactics were changed so that bombs were delivered from a shallower, 45° diving angle. Aircraft and bomb sights were accordingly modified and dive brakes were removed. With an advanced Stuvi dive-bombsight, accuracy remained very good for its time. Maximum bomb load of the A-4 was 3,000 kg (6,600 lb), but in practice, standard bomb load was 1,500–2,000 kg (3,300–4,400 lb).

Game Play

For an in-depth guide to divebombing, have a look at the CAS section