Messerschmitt Me 321
Encyclopedia : M : ME : MES : Messerschmitt Me 321
During the preparation for a possible invasion of Britain during World War II (called Operation Sealion), the Oberkommando des Heeres (OKH) required a cargo glider that would carry about 130 equipped soldiers because it was not possible to ship all the important weapons and goods by naval vessels. Cargo gliders were also needed to secure bridgeheads in a short time. The capture of Fort Eben-Emael was, for the German army leaders, the proof that gliders are crucial for these scenarios.
However, the Me 321 glider was ultimately so heavy that she needed to be towed by three Messerschmitt Me 110 fighters, which was a waste of much-needed combat aircraft.
The German web site [WaffenHQ.de] serves pictures and a lengthy description of the Me 321 glider.
Specifications
- Function: Transport Glider
- First Flight: March 7, 1941
- Service Delivery: June 1941
- Final Delivery: April 1942
- Dimensions:
- *Wing span: 55 m (180'5")
- *Length: 28.15 m (92'4")
- *Height: 10.15 m (33'4")
- Weight:
- *Empty: 12,400 kg (27,300 lb)
- *Maximum: 34,400 kg (75,800 lb)
- Performance:
- *Maximum Speed: 160 km/h (100 mph) on tow
- *Initial climb: 2.5 m/s (490 ft/min) (towed by three Me 110 airplanes)
- Weapons: 4 MG 15 machine guns
See also
There was also a motorized Version built, the Me 323 "Gigant" with six 895 kW engines. This resulted in the biggest land-based cargo airplane of the Second World War.
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