German Fighter Aircraft in World War I: Design, Construction and Innovation

During World War I, fighter aircraft were developed rapidly by the Germans, who utilized systematic production and modular engineering. The Germans pioneered the use of streamlined fuselages and powerful inline engines, which made their aircraft easier and more stable to fly. Fokker was slow to give up his rotary engines, but once he did, he produced the iconic Fokker D VII, which was years ahead of its time and the only aircraft specifically mentioned in the Treaty of Versailles that Germany could not build after the war. German Fighter Aircraft in World War I provides a detailed look at these aircraft and their contributions to the war effort.

Format: Hardback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2019
Publisher: Casemate Publishers

During World War I, fighter aircraft were developed at an unprecedented rate as nascent air forces sought to achieve and maintain air supremacy. German manufacturers, led by companies such as Fokker, innovated at top speed, constantly scrutinizing the development of new enemy aircraft. One of the key innovations was the concept of systematic production or modular engineering, which was utilized by the Germans. This involved the use of wooden wings with welded steel fuselages, allowing for quick disassembly or reassembly in the field, unlike many Allied aircraft.

Pfalz and Albatros were the first to realize the importance of a streamlined fuselage, which was the precursor to all that would follow. Both companies built semi-monocoque fuselages using plywood to develop semi-stressed skin, a technique that the Allies had nothing like. The Germans also perfected powerful inline engines, exemplified by the Albatros fighters. These engines did not have the gyroscopic effect of the rotary engines and were easier and more stable to fly.

Fokker was slow to give up his rotary engines, but once he did, the result was the iconic Fokker D VII, which was years ahead of its time and the only aircraft specifically mentioned in the Treaty of Versailles that Germany could not build after the war. The book also explores the different makes and types of aircraft used by the German air force, including the Junkers JG 1, the Fokker Eindecker, and the Gotha G.V.

In conclusion, German Fighter Aircraft in World War I provides a comprehensive and detailed account of the development of German fighter aircraft during the war. It explores the innovations and trials that made the Fokker D VII possible, as well as the different makes and types of aircraft used by the German air force. Using unpublished images, archive images, and models and replicas, the book provides a unique insight into the world of German fighter aircraft and their role in the war.

Weight: 860g
Dimension: 209 x 259 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781612006192