The Staaken R.VI had a crew of seven with the pilot and co-pilot being enclosed in a cockpit. It could carry up to 2,000kg bomb load. Two gunner/mechanics flew in each engine compartment.
As described in Neil Hanson's book 'The First Blitz' the first bombing raids on London took place over eight
nights in 1917, but it was the second wave of attacks in the summer of 1918,
following the development of the 'Elektron' incendiary bomb, that came within
an ace of obliterating London. The margin between the survival of the world's
greatest capital city and its total destruction came down to less than one hour.
The Wings of Glory Staaken is a real monster and a lovely model, albeit a bit pricey. Here are some photos of it.
This photo shows how big the Giant is compared to the Fokker Dr.I. Jasta 11 (von Richthofen's Flying Circus) are escorting the Giant.
8 comments:
Sheesh, that thing is massive! It would scare the heck out of my little Neuiports
Imagine how Squadron Leader James Bigglesworth feels. Along with his old pal Ginger, he's flying a Camel towards the Staaken as we speak! Report to follow...............
It's a big bugger alright, doesn't appear to have any defence from the lower rear under the tail. Mind you not many of us do.
Good luck to Biggles and Ginger. Tally ho
This version does not, you are right. Another version had a rear under gunner which upped the crew to eight in total.
Biggles thanks you and says he will buy you a drink in the Squadron mess, if he survives this mission!
Back in Blighty around that time, my great grandfather sent many a big Focker just like that one shown, spiraling to the ground. Mum told me he was the bar guard in the Sgt's mess.
Interesting vid here with a few good ideas.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjFy6r61qcI
Thanks for the link
bruh james bigglesworth is fictional
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